An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) has been closed and attached to the Habiganj Police Lines after a video of him publicly defending bribery went viral on social media.
ASI Mohammad Iliyas Hossain was serving at Chunarughat Police Station in Habiganj.
Chunarughat Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Saiful Islam confirmed the development, saying the decision came following widespread criticism over the viral video.
The incident took place at Ranigaon Bazar in Chunarughat upazila, Habiganj, where ASI Iliyas Hossain had gone to investigate a case filed by local businessman Noman Mia.
While speaking in front of people at the market, the police officer made controversial remarks defending corruption.
In a video recorded on a mobile phone by a local bystander, ASI Iliyas Hossain was heard saying, “Where there is a rumour, there is some truth. If I say I work for the police but do not take bribes, will I become the Imam of Baitul Mukarram? I wore this uniform with bribe money, specifically to take bribes.”
The video sparked intense criticism and raised serious questions about the image of the police administration in Chunarughat upazila and the wider Habiganj district.
According to locals, ASI Iliyas Hossain had been asserting dominance at the police station and in investigation areas by claiming that Chunarughat Police Station OC Saiful Islam was an “elder brother” from his local area.
Complaints have also been raised that he regularly engaged in misdeeds, irregularities and extortion by using the OC’s name.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (Madhabpur Circle) Md Mafiur Rahman said, “I have learnt about the matter, and an investigation is ongoing. Once the investigation is complete, details will be disclosed”.
