A total of 250 cargo containers have gone missing from Chattogram Port despite being under customs lock due to smuggling and tax evasion suspicions. The Chattogram Custom House had restricted their release through the ASYCUDA World system, but the containers could not be located. Officials suspect a large syndicate exploited system weaknesses and breached port security to remove the containers. Over seven months, the customs authority sent five letters to the port authority seeking clarification, but no response was received.

According to customs sources, the containers were imported between 2021 and 2024 and were never cleared by importers. The issue surfaced after a company failed to locate two auctioned containers in 2025, prompting a wider investigation. Security analysts warned that the disappearance poses a serious national security threat, recalling past incidents of arms and drug smuggling through the same port. Customs officials emphasized that the port authority is responsible for container custody.

Port officials have not provided direct comments, though the port chairman recently acknowledged attempts by a syndicate to manipulate documents and digital systems. Experts said both customs and port authorities share responsibility for the security lapse.