Illegal Juice Factory Busted in Patuakhali, Owner Jailed and Fined BDT 1 Lakh

A mobile court on Friday sentenced a man to one year of rigorous imprisonment and slapped him with a fine of BDT 1 lakh for the illegal production of counterfeit 'Drinko' brand juice in Kalapara upazila.

The convict, identified as 35-year-old Masud Sikder, was penalized following a raid at a factory situated near the Kobi Nazrul Islam Road area of the municipal town. 

The operation was led by Executive Magistrate and Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kawsar Hamid.

The factory was found to be manufacturing the beverage without any approval from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). 

During the drive, authorities seized and destroyed 155 packets of the illicit juice in public using a paver machine. 

The factory was subsequently sealed off.

UNO Kawsar Hamid stated that the raid was carried out based on secret information regarding the unauthorized facility. 

He further emphasized that strict operations against dishonest traders involved in the production of illegal food items and daily essentials would continue to ensure public safety.

With Inputs from UNB