Chittagong, Nov 06 (V7N)- Customs officials at Chittagong Port have detected two containers of undeclared poppy seeds hidden inside a consignment of bird food imported from Pakistan, officials said on Thursday (November 6).

The shipment, imported by Adib Trading, arrived at the port on October 9 and was taken to a private depot of Chhaber Ahmed Timber. During a routine inspection, customs officials discovered 25 tons of poppy seeds hidden inside sacks, along with 7 tons of declared bird food.

Customs authorities noted that poppy seeds are prohibited for import under the Narcotics Control Act, 2018, and have a market value of approximately 65 million taka. Officials said legal action will be taken against the importer for attempting to bring in the banned product.

The bird food had been cleverly placed at the container’s opening to conceal the contraband, but customs’ thorough examination revealed the violation.

END/SMA/AJ