SI withdrawn over allegation of stealing mobile from shop

A Sub-Inspector (SI) of police has been withdrawn over allegations of stealing a mobile phone from a fruit shop in Ajmiriganj, Habiganj. He has been attached to the Habiganj Police Lines.

The withdrawn officer is Rasel Mia. Ajmiriganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Akbar Hossain confirmed the matter on Tuesday, August 11. He said Rasel was attached to the Police Lines on Monday afternoon.

Earlier on Saturday night, fruit seller Rajib Ahmed's smartphone was stolen from his shop in Ajmiriganj Bazaar. After reviewing the shop's CCTV footage, he saw SI Rasel entering the shop to buy fruit.

The CCTV footage shows Rasel spending about five minutes in the shop after making his purchase. Rajib's smartphone was kept on the counter. Rasel placed a file and his own mobile phone on top of it. After a while, while talking to Rajib, he put both phones in his pocket and left with the fruit bag.

After failing to find his mobile phone, Rajib reviewed the CCTV footage and confirmed the theft. He later contacted the police officer and asked him to return the phone.

Rajib said SI Rasel told him that after taking the phone, he had lost it and had given him Tk 15,000 instead.

Ajmiriganj OC Akbar Hossain said he had also seen the CCTV footage. The incident has tarnished the image of the police. After reporting the matter to senior police officials, Rasel was attached to the Habiganj Police Lines yesterday.

However, it was not immediately known whether any departmental or legal action has been taken against the SI.