Fresh concerns have emerged over organised smuggling operations along the Sherpur border, where local residents claim a vast network continues to move narcotics, foreign cosmetics, prohibited goods and luxury items into Bangladesh despite regular law enforcement drives.
An investigation by TIMES of Bangladesh found that smuggling syndicates remain active across the border areas of Sreebardi, Jhenaigati and Nalitabari upazilas, using remote hills and dense forests along the Meghalaya border as key transit routes.
According to findings, the rugged terrain, forested areas and numerous hill streams have long provided safe passage for smugglers, making surveillance and enforcement particularly challenging.
The investigation confirmed that smugglers use multiple routes connected to India’s Tura, Dalu and Assam border regions to bypass barbed-wire fencing and other security measures. Most movements reportedly take place during the late-night and early-morning hours.
Information gathered during the investigation indicates that contraband regularly enters Bangladesh through more than 20 points along the Sherpur border. Key locations include Bilpar, Nokshi, Rangtia, Lohar Bridge, Gomra, Sandhyakura, Halchati, Tawakucha, Balijuri, Karnojora, Rubber Bagan, Baromari, Khalchanda, Nakugaon, Panihata and Shalbagan.
The investigation also identified several organised groups allegedly controlling various forms of smuggling. According to local sources, separate syndicates operate in the trafficking of foreign cosmetics and other consumer goods, while another network is reportedly involved in the movement of narcotics and assorted illegal products.
Sources said the groups employ multiple smaller teams responsible for transporting, storing and distributing the goods. Several individuals linked to these networks are reported to have criminal cases pending against them.
The investigation found that contraband is first collected in border-adjacent areas on the Indian side, including Dobachipara and Barangapara near Dalu. The goods are then temporarily stored before being packed and transported to designated crossing points along the border.
After entering Bangladesh, the products are allegedly concealed in forested areas before being distributed across the country using easy-bikes, motorcycles and hand-carried bags.
Official data show that Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) seized smuggled goods and narcotics worth approximately Tk60.58 crore during operations conducted in the Mymensingh Sector between January and November 2025. A total of 114 people were detained during the drives.
However, residents and observers say that while low-level couriers are frequently arrested, the individuals directing the operations continue to evade capture.
Local people allege that the influence of smuggling syndicates is so extensive that many residents are reluctant to speak publicly for fear of retaliation.
A resident of Jhenaigati, requesting anonymity, said the atmosphere changes after sunset.
“We avoid going out unless absolutely necessary. Motorcycles and people move through the area at night. Many things are visible, but speaking about them could create security risks,” he said.
Another resident of the upazila said smuggling had persisted for many years.
“Operations occasionally reduce activities for a short period, but they soon resume. Usually, only small operators are caught while the major players remain untouched,” he added.
Residents of Kharamora in Sreebardi echoed similar concerns, saying influential groups dominate the trade.
“We want to live peacefully, but those involved are powerful. Many people remain silent despite knowing what is happening,” one resident said.
People in Panihata of Nalitabari pointed to limited employment opportunities as a contributing factor.
“There are few jobs here and many unemployed youths. Some become involved in smuggling for quick income, but they mainly follow orders. The real operators rarely appear in public, making them difficult to identify,” a resident said.
Experts attribute the persistence of smuggling to the region’s difficult geography and limitations in border surveillance. They stressed the need for technology-based monitoring systems and stronger coordination between authorities on both sides of the border.
Sherpur District Bar Association President Advocate Sirajul Islam said narcotics and contraband smuggling had long been a challenge in the border region.
“More coordinated and robust efforts involving BGB, police and other law enforcement agencies are required. Greater cross-border cooperation could also help improve the situation,” he said.
Additional Superintendent of Police Md Mizanur Rahman Bhuiyan acknowledged the challenges posed by the area’s terrain.
“Some locations are difficult to monitor because of the hilly and forested landscape. Nevertheless, district police, intelligence agencies and local police stations continue to conduct regular operations. Significant quantities of narcotics and smuggled goods have been seized and suspects arrested,” he said.
Mymensingh Sector Commander of BGB 39, Colonel Sarkar Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman, said regular patrols and anti-smuggling operations were continuing along the border.
“We have strengthened surveillance using modern technology to prevent smuggling, narcotics trafficking, counterfeit currency circulation, illegal crossings and environmentally harmful activities. We also seek cooperation from the local administration, media and the public in these efforts,” he said.
