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Editorial

Step up vigilance at Benapole to curb drug smuggling


Bangladeshpost
Published : 30 Oct 2024 08:29 PM

Benapole Land Port, one of Bangladesh’s largest and busiest gateways for global trade, is at a hub as cases of drug smuggling continue to escalate. Recent incidents emphasised the need for urgent reform in its security action to safeguard national security and public health. The port’s vulnerabilities, in particular, the defective scanning machines, misconduct of staffs and failure in vigilance, threaten its soundness and pose serious risks to the country. An effective, sustained solution is crucial for restoring order and public trust in Benapole’s services.

At the heart of this problem lies the defective scanning equipment. Despite the existence of three scanning machines, with one valued at Tk five crore, none are currently operational. This lack of functional technology has opened a significant gap in Benapole’s security, making it easier for smugglers to exploit these loopholes. Recent recoveries of Phensedyl, highlight how broadly smugglers use the port’s lack of scrutiny to transport illegal goods. Law enforcement agency's members seized 49 bottles of Phensedyl in one instance, with other significant recoveries being reported just days prior. The fact that such quantities can pass through a port monitored by 375 CCTV cameras and patrolled by the Armed Police Battalion (APBn), Ansar and private security agency Prima points to deeper systemic flaws.

Compounding this issue is the evident involvement of some security personnel in malpractice. Instances of non-operational security devices, like fingerprint machines, have raised serious questions regarding internal answerability and the possibility of involvement with smuggling networks. The involvement of security personnel, if confirmed, would not only reflect negligence but also would further erode public trust in the port’s overall mechanism. Effective security requires liability among all staff, from ground-level officials to high authorities concerned, who must be held to strict standards.

The time for a decisive response

 is now and the stakes for public

 health, security and economic 

stability could not be higher

Industry leaders and stakeholders have expressed their deep concern over these recurring issues. Vice-President of the Benapole Importers-Exporters Association Anowar Ali Anu and President of the Clearing and Forwarding Agent Association Shamsur Rahman, have underscored the importance of restoring scanning capabilities and enhancing security protocols. For Benapole to remain a viable and safe entry point for trading, it must ensure a zero-tolerance approach to smuggling, backed by reliable technology and vigilant personnel.   Addressing these challenges demand a comprehensive strategy, starting with the repair or replacement of the non-functional scanners. Scanning technology is essential to preventing smuggled goods. Customs authorities and relevant top officials must take rapid action to repair the idle machines, ensuring that all consignments pass through inspections.

Equally essential is internal answerability. Sudden inspections and real-time security audits should become standard practice, minimising opportunities for staffs’ misconduct and involvement. Enhanced training on anti-smuggling strategies would help reduce closeness with smuggling networks and provide a more dynamic security force.  

Furthermore, coordinated inter-agency effort is crucial. Although APBn, Ansar and Prima security staff all serve important roles, a united framework involving the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) and other specialised agencies would bring greater efficiency to port security. Joint operations, intelligence-sharing protocols and continuous professional development would strengthen Benapole’s security and provide security personnel with the resources needed to meet smuggling networks.

 Beanpole Port is more than a trade gateway— it is a symbol of the country’s economic potential and security. Allowing it to fall prey to unbridled drug smuggling undermines its purpose and threatens the nation’s welfare. Immediate action for restoring scanning equipment, enforcing strict internal answerability and fostering robust inter-agency collaboration may help reclaim Benapole as a secure and well-organised trade hub. The time for a decisive response is now and the stakes for public health, security and economic stability could not be higher.