Benapole land port security privatised

Messers Basic Security System of Dhaka is expected to take up the responsibility of the security system from February 1. It has got the work order, official sources said.

Seventy security personnel of Mongla Port Authority (MPA) serving there now will be taken back to their head office by January 31.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

They would be replaced by over 100 security guards of the private company.

When contacted, MPA Chairman Commodore Khurshid said security system at the land port will henceforth be looked after by Messers Basic Security Systems as per a decision of the government. He reserved his comment when asked about the impact of privatising the security stem.

He stressed the need for industrialisation of the South-Western region of the country to keep Mongla sea port operative and help restore its lost glory.

Some importers and C&F (clearing and forwarding) agents this correspondent talked to however said the privatisation will increase theft and pilferage of imported goods at the land port.

Leaders of Benapole C&F Agents Association said problems relating to security of imported goods worth crores of taka will increase in the new arrangement.

The off and on problems are manifold and corruption at the port is deep-rooted. It will not be possible for a private company to tackle those, they said.