Dangerous Explosives Found on Consignment from Pakistan!

Dangerous explosives capable of destroying large structures and causing significant casualties were reportedly found in two containers aboard the cargo ship MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhong, which arrived at Chattogram Port from Karachi, Pakistan, on Dec. 21, according to sources.

A port official shared images and details of the containers with BD Digest, including one container labeled WHLU-42617942G1 that bore the word “Explosive” inside a red square. An intelligence source confirmed that Navy officials detained the containers for an hour after the discovery during an inspection but later released them under undisclosed circumstances.

The containers were found to contain seismic emulsion explosives, a high-intensity material manufactured by a Cambodian company. Customs and Navy officials conducted the physical inspection in the presence of representatives from the importing organization.

An initial order to halt delivery was issued after the discovery, but the goods were cleared for release within an hour following instructions from higher authorities. Sources said the containers did not originate directly from Cambodia but arrived at Chattogram via Pakistan and the UAE. While information printed on the cartons suggested Cambodian origin, details about the manufacturer remain scarce.

Navy officials imposed strict confidentiality on the matter, barring media access and prohibiting photography. After the explosives were unloaded, officials left the site without providing any explanations.

Port sources indicated that importing explosive materials typically requires adherence to strict protocols, including special permissions and designated handling procedures. These materials, classified as “dangerous goods,” are normally unloaded under heightened safety measures. However, such protocols were not observed in this case, and the goods were released in haste.

Sources confirmed that the explosives have already been transported to Sylhet and Keraniganj. They emphasized that the shipment was not intended for the military or any law enforcement or security agencies.

The MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhong primarily carried refined sugar, mineral dolomite, soda ash, fabric rolls, scrap metal, and molasses, as well as food items, lubricant oil, and machinery from Pakistan and the UAE, according to port officials. The cargo manifest, however, did not list the explosives.

Authorities have yet to determine the purpose of the shipment or identify those responsible for importing the hazardous materials. Investigations are ongoing.

The purpose of importing such hazardous materials or the identity of those behind it remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.