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TL;DR
- Border Guard Bangladesh seized 8.398 kg of ambergris worth Tk 21 crore in Cox’s Bazar.
- The arrest took place in the Bazar Para area of Shahpari Island; the detainee is Shamsul Alam from St Martin’s Island.
- Ambergris was confirmed by the Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute and is used in perfumes and medicines.
- The substance was intended for sale to a third party, and the detainee has been handed over to the police.
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) apprehended an individual in possession of ambergris, commonly known as whale vomit, in Cox’s Bazar’s Teknaf region. The seized ambergris, weighing approximately 8.398 kilograms, holds an estimated market value of around Tk 21 crore, according to Lt Colonel Md Mohiuddin Ahmed, the commanding officer of BGB 2 battalion.
The arrest took place on Sunday afternoon in the Bazar Para area of Shahpari Island. The detained individual has been identified as Shamsul Alam, a 35-year-old resident of St Martin’s Island in Teknaf. The identification of the substance as ambergris was confirmed after testing at the Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute in Cox’s Bazar.
Ambergris is a highly sought-after substance in many developed countries due to its use in manufacturing luxurious perfumes and medicines. Despite its value, the smuggling of ambergris is relatively rare in Bangladesh. During interrogation, Alam disclosed that he intended to sell the ambergris to a third party.
The recovered ambergris has been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner’s Treasury Branch office in Cox’s Bazar for further proceedings. Meanwhile, Shamsul Alam has been handed over to the police for legal action.
Ambergris is a rare substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales. It is known for its unique sweet and earthy scent that develops as it ages, making it an invaluable ingredient in perfumery. Historically, it has been used not only in perfumes but also as incense and even in culinary applications across various cultures. Its rarity and unique properties have earned it nicknames such as “floating gold” and “treasure of the sea.”
The incident highlights ongoing challenges related to wildlife smuggling and the illegal trade of rare natural resources. The BGB continues to monitor and prevent such activities to protect Bangladesh’s natural heritage and uphold international conservation efforts.
Source: The Daily Star
