Alleged Police Impersonation Robbery in Chattogram

Chattogram’s residents were left shocked on Thursday (5 March) after three fish traders reported being robbed by an individual claiming to be a police officer, right beside a genuine police vehicle. The incident occurred in the Notun Bridge area under the jurisdiction of Bakulia Police Station.

The victims—Munir, Yusuf, and Hridoy—all work as fish traders at the local fishery market. According to Munir, the incident took place after a routine day of selling fish.

“After finishing our sales and heading home, near Mannan Tower in front of Asia Bank, an individual approached us claiming to be a police officer. He began searching us and forcibly took 66,000 taka before fleeing,” Munir told reporters. “Shockingly, there was a police vehicle parked right beside us at the time.”

The apparent brazen nature of the robbery, occurring under the eyes of law enforcement, has raised concerns about security and the effectiveness of patrols in the area.

When asked about the incident, Assistant Sub-Inspector Zahirul Islam, who was on patrol in the area, stated that he was not present at the scene. “I was in court with an accused at the time,” he explained, adding that he had no knowledge of the robbery.

The victims later visited Bakulia Police Station seeking assistance, but according to them, their concerns were not addressed effectively. The duty officer, Sub-Inspector Jesmin, confirmed that three young men had arrived at the station but did not specify the purpose of their visit, merely stating they intended to inform the Officer-in-Charge.

Efforts to reach the Officer-in-Charge, Mohammad Solaiman, by phone were unsuccessful, and no official comment could be obtained at the time of reporting.

The incident has triggered public outrage over alleged police impersonation and the lack of immediate response, highlighting the need for stricter vigilance and accountability in areas prone to petty crime.

Summary of Incident

Authorities have yet to confirm whether any investigation has begun into the robbery. Meanwhile, local traders have expressed anxiety over similar incidents in the future.