Electronic Security Gate Still Not Operational After Two Years, Unauthorized Access Increases at Ctg Customs

Published : Wednesday, 6 May, 2026 at 4:17 PM Count : 26

Despite an initiative taken two years ago to strengthen security and prevent unauthorized entry, the authorities of Chattogram Customs have yet to implement a special electronic gate system.

According to sources, in mid-2024, the customs authority introduced a plan to install a “Proximity Card System Gate.” Under this initiative, C&F agents, shipping agents, freight forwarders, and other service recipients were instructed to obtain proximity cards within a specified deadline. With support from the C&F Agents Association, six machines were also installed at the entry points.

However, the system never became operational due to the failure to activate the card mechanism, leaving the machines unused. As a result, the movement of unauthorized individuals within the customs premises has reportedly increased.

Sources within customs said the institution handles hundreds of sensitive revenue-related documents and maintains thousands of important consignment records in its software systems. Despite this, outsiders are often seen entering the premises and engaging in unnecessary activities, disrupting the working environment and creating security risks.

Golam Rabbani Reagan Azad, former Joint Secretary of the Chattogram Customs Agents Association, said they had long been urging the authorities to install electronic gates at entry points to restrict unauthorized access. He alleged that a group of intermediaries, locally known as “faltu,” still operate inside the customs house, moving documents between sections and allegedly engaging in bribery under the name of “speed money” in collusion with some officials. He added that the introduction of the proximity card system could help curb such practices.

Sharif Mohammad Al Amin, Assistant Commissioner of Chattogram Custom House, said that although the proximity card system gate has not yet been launched due to various reasons, security personnel are currently allowing entry only after checking identity cards and are trying to prevent unauthorized access.

Officials also said that customs operations will be relocated to the World Trade Center starting next month, where the proximity card system is expected to be introduced.

It is worth noting that on October 4, 2023, two individuals were detained for attempting to break into the office of a customs official and steal documents. Several items, including mobile phones, a laptop, a router, USB devices, and master keys, were recovered from them. The incident raised serious concerns about the security system at the customs office.

FP/MI