5 crore taka worth of mobile phones seized at Shahjalal

Customs authorities have seized 1,655 mobile phones worth approximately 5 core taka that were imported from Hong Kong under a false declaration and concealed behind rolls of fabric. The goods were seized from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday (September 8).

Customs officials said the shipment arrived in the name of a company called Thianis Apparels Limited. The product description in the shipment was declared as “knit fabrics.” The import of such a large quantity of mobile phones instead of the declared goods indicates a major case of duty evasion and false declaration.

The actual models of the mobile phones, IMEI numbers, whether they are new or used, market value and applicable duties and taxes are being determined. Strict action will be taken against those involved in the incident under the existing customs laws.

According to the preliminary count by customs, the seized mobile phones include 450 Redmi 14C phones, 150 Redmi 15C phones and another 1,055 phones from various Chinese brands, including used iPhones.