Rangamati, Dec 16, (V7N) - A recent operation by the Rangamati District Detective Branch (DB) led to the seizure of approximately 19 lakh 20 thousand taka worth of illegal, duty-free cigarettes. The raid was based on specific intelligence about ongoing smuggling activities through various boats across the Kaptai Lake. The operation was carried out under the direct supervision of Rangamati's Superintendent of Police, Dr. Farhad Hossain.
 
Confirming the incident, DB's Officer-in-Charge (OC), Dous Mohammad, stated that the operation took place at the Gitasram Colony near the burned mill area of Kaptai Lake in the city’s Reserve Bazaar. A speedboat carrying bags of illegal cigarettes was intercepted, and one individual was arrested.
 
The arrested man, identified as Jewel Chakma (38), hails from the Juraschhari region in the district. The seized cigarettes were of the 'Patron' brand, totaling 160,000 sticks, with an estimated market value of 19 lakh 20 thousand taka.
 
The OC mentioned that a regular case was being filed in connection with the incident. Local sources report that amid the current situation, illegal activities, including the smuggling of cigarettes and other prohibited goods, have surged in the region.
 
It has been revealed that smuggling syndicates frequently exploit the current law and order situation to carry out these illegal activities. These syndicates smuggle duty-free goods, such as cigarettes, tea, sugar, and milk powder, across the border from India to various remote areas of Rangamati, including Juraschhari, Baghaichhari, and Barkal.
 
Additionally, sources have confirmed that in disguise, these syndicates also smuggle goods like seasonal fruits, fresh vegetables, and even fish trucks, alongside illegal cigarettes, from Rangamati almost daily. This highlights the growing challenge posed by cross-border smuggling networks operating in the region.
 
This operation sheds light on the ongoing struggle against smuggling through Kaptai Lake using various boats, demonstrating the continued efforts of Rangamati's police to combat illegal trade.
 
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