More than 200 mobile phones stolen at 'Ittadi' recording in Joypurhat, one arrested

More than 200 mobile phones were allegedly stolen from spectators who had gathered to watch the recording of BTV's popular magazine programme 'Ittadi'. Police arrested a man, Golam Ratan (46), red-handed in connection with the thefts.

The recording took place on Saturday (7 November) from the evening until 9pm at the historic Nandail Dighi College ground in Kalai upazila of Joypurhat. Spectators began arriving from far and wide from the morning to watch the recording, planned and directed by Hanif Sanket.

At one point, around 5,000 to 7,000 people had gathered at the ground. More than 250 police personnel were deployed by the district administration and police for the spectators' security. Representatives of various intelligence agencies, 50 scouts and 100 local volunteers were also on duty.

Despite all this security, professional thieves and pickpockets allegedly became active, taking advantage of the crowd. Mobile phones were stolen one after another from the spectators' pockets and bags during the programme. Many spectators realised their phones were gone only after the programme ended.

Inspector (Investigation) Imayedul Zahedi of Kalai police station said around 70 to 80 victims came to the police station after the programme and made verbal complaints. Police believe the total number of stolen mobile phones could be between 150 and 200.

He said Golam Ratan was arrested red-handed at the venue on charges of theft. He is the son of Golam Rabbani of Bhadosa area in Joypurhat Sadar upazila.

Zahedi said further legal action will be taken once written complaints are received from the victims.