25 tonnes of banned poppy seeds seized in bird feed shipment from Pakistan

Out of a 32-tonne shipment of bird feed imported from Pakistan in two containers, the Chattogram Customs has found 25 tonnes to be poppy seeds.

The information was revealed in a press release issued by Chattogram Customs on Thursday, November 6. Poppy seeds capable of germination are considered a Category-A narcotic. The government’s Import Policy Order prohibits the import of such seeds. According to customs officials, the seized seeds have an estimated market value of around Tk 6.5 crore.

Customs officials said the consignment was imported by Messrs Adib Trading of Korbaniganj, Chattogram. The import documents declared 32 tonnes of bird feed. The two containers arrived at Chattogram Port on October 9 and were taken to a private depot, Sabber Ahmed Timber Company Limited, for unloading.

Based on secret information, customs authorities suspended the release of the consignment and decided to examine it. The containers were opened on October 22, and samples were sent to three laboratories for testing, which confirmed the presence of poppy seeds. The consignment contained seven tonnes of bird feed and 25 tonnes of poppy seeds.

Officials said the poppy seeds were concealed inside the containers under a layer of bird feed to disguise the import. Under the Narcotics Control Act 2018, poppy seeds are classified as a Category-A narcotic. As per Article 3(1)(b) of the Import Policy Order 2021–24, poppy seeds are listed among prohibited imports. However, in Bangladesh, poppy seeds, locally known as postodana, are used as a cooking spice.

The declared value of the consignment was Tk 30,02,482, but the physical inspection revealed the actual market value to be around Tk 6.5 crore, according to Chattogram Customs. Legal action is being taken against the individuals or entities involved in the import of the consignment.