A police assistant sub-inspector in Habiganj has been withdrawn from his posting and attached to the police lines after a video surfaced on social media in which he appeared to make controversial remarks about taking bribes.
Mohammad Elias Hossain, an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) at Chunarughat Police Station, came under scrutiny after a video showing him discussing bribery was widely circulated online. The footage prompted criticism and drew the attention of senior police officials.
The development was confirmed on Monday night by Mohammad Saiful Islam, officer-in-charge of Chunarughat Police Station. He said Elias had already been withdrawn from the police station and attached to the police lines. He added that further action would be taken following an investigation into the incident.
According to local sources, Elias had recently gone to Ranigaon Bazar as part of an investigation into a case filed by local businessman Noman Mia. While at the market, he reportedly made several comments about accepting bribes in the presence of local people.
A local resident recorded the remarks on a mobile phone. The footage was later shared on social media, where it attracted considerable attention and criticism.
In the video, Elias can be heard making remarks about the practice of bribery and referring to the cost of obtaining his police uniform. He is heard saying, in substance, that he had paid for his uniform with money from bribes and therefore had to take bribes. He also made other comments concerning his position as a police officer and the issue of accepting illicit payments.
The circulation of the footage quickly brought the matter to the attention of higher-ranking police officials. The incident has since resulted in administrative action against the ASI, with his withdrawal from Chunarughat Police Station and attachment to the police lines pending further examination of the matter.
Attempts were made to contact Elias for his response to the allegations and the remarks attributed to him in the video. However, his mobile phone was found switched off, and no comment could be obtained from him.
Saiful Islam said he had seen the video and that it had been forwarded to senior officials for their consideration.
“The video has been seen and sent to senior officials. He has already been withdrawn and attached to the police lines. Appropriate action will be taken against him subject to an investigation,” the officer said.
The incident has raised questions about professional conduct within the police service, particularly because the remarks concern bribery, an issue that can directly affect public confidence in law enforcement. At this stage, however, the allegations and the circumstances surrounding the recorded remarks remain subject to investigation.
The police have not yet announced what specific disciplinary measures, if any, will be taken against Elias. The outcome is expected to depend on the findings of the inquiry and any further evidence gathered during the investigation.
