Over 200 Phones Reportedly Stolen at Ityadi Shoot

More than 150 and possibly over 200 mobile phones were reportedly stolen during the filming of Bangladesh Television's (BTV) popular magazine programme Ityadi in Kalai upazila of Joypurhat. Police suspect that thieves took advantage of the large crowd, estimated at around 10,000 people. One man, identified as Golam Ratan, 46, has been detained in connection with the alleged thefts.

The filming took place from Saturday evening until 9 PM on 7 November at the college field beside the historic Nandail Dighi in Kalai upazila. Crowds began arriving from different parts of the district in the morning to watch the programme, planned, directed and presented by Hanif Sanket.

To ensure the event was held safely and smoothly, around 250 police personnel were deployed through an initiative by the district administration and district police. They were joined by members of different intelligence agencies, 50 Scout members and more than 100 local volunteers.

Despite the extensive security arrangements, allegations emerged that professional thieves and pickpocketing groups took advantage of the crowd. Mobile phones were reportedly stolen from spectators' pockets and bags during the filming. Many viewers realised their phones were missing only after the event ended and subsequently went to Kalai Police Station to lodge verbal complaints.

Imayedul Zahedi, inspector (investigation) at Kalai Police Station, said around 70 to 80 victims had directly approached the station after the programme to report the alleged thefts verbally. Police estimate that the total number of stolen phones could range from 150 to more than 200.

He also said police had detained Golam Ratan at the event venue on allegations of mobile phone theft. Ratan is the son of Golam Rabbani of the Bhadsha area under Joypurhat Sadar upazila. The inspector said further legal action would be taken if written complaints were submitted by the victims.

//DBTech/AGPN/SME/MSI//