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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ Bangladesh /Crime & Justice

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From Daily Star · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • An audio recording purportedly featuring Mohammad Abul Hashem, an officer-in-charge, discussing bribery has gone viral.
  • Hashem has been withdrawn from duty pending an investigation by a three-member committee.
  • The officer denies the voice is his, while police state departmental action will follow if allegations are proven.

Mohammad Abul Hashem, the officer-in-charge (OC) of Kalmakanda Police Station in Netrokona, has been removed from his post following the circulation of a viral audio recording. The recording allegedly captures Hashem discussing bribery and corruption with fellow police personnel. Netrokona's Superintendent of Police, Md Tarikul Islam, confirmed the withdrawal and announced the formation of a three-member committee to investigate the matter.

The committee, headed by Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Hafizul Islam, has been tasked with submitting its findings within five working days. Superintendent Islam further stated that departmental action would be taken if the allegations against Hashem are substantiated. The audio clip, which appeared online recently, is widely believed to feature the OC speaking about the nature of police work as a "business" and emphasizing the need for coordination and mutual protection among officers.

Police job is a type of business. Not everyone is involved in this business, but we protect one another. Everyone must work in coordination. You cannot exploit the OC. I will not deprive you. My constables must get what they deserve. I do not like taking away from someone what they rightfully deserve.

โ€” Mohammad Abul Hashem (purported)The alleged audio recording discusses corruption and internal police dynamics.

In the purported recording, the speaker can be heard saying, "Police job is a type of business. Not everyone is involved in this business, but we protect one another. Everyone must work in coordination. You cannot exploit the OC. I will not deprive you. My constables must get what they deserve. I do not like taking away from someone what they rightfully deserve." The audio also reportedly includes remarks on monetary transactions related to cases and operational coordination. Notably, the name of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is mentioned at one point.

However, Mohammad Abul Hashem has vehemently denied the authenticity of the recording, stating, "This is not my statement. I do not even know how such a speech is being circulated." His denial comes as the investigation into the alleged corruption begins, with the police department prepared to take action based on the inquiry's outcome.

This is not my statement. I do not even know how such a speech is being circulated.

โ€” Mohammad Abul HashemHashem denied that the voice in the viral audio recording was his.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.