SI Karim, aided by the fascist government: Allegedly extorted 40 thousand taka from a mechanic in Rajshahi

SI Karim, aided by the fascist government: Allegedly extorted 40 thousand taka from a mechanic in Rajshahi
Photo: Md. Rajib Khan

Daily Bijoy News, Rajshahi Correspondent:

Bangladesh Police Chief Baharul Alam recently said at an event held at the Rajarbagh Police Auditorium — "At one time, the police had become the enforcers of a fascist government. We are now trying to move away from that position so that the police never again transforms into an anti-people force." Since taking charge, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) Commissioner Mohammad Abu Sufian has also taken a series of steps to maintain a strict stance on law and order and establish transparency. Although the image of the Metropolitan Police has improved under his leadership, there are still some corrupt members who have not been able to break free from the old, corrupt practices. One such controversial member is SI Karim, the In-charge of the Laxmipur Police Box under Rajshahi's Rajpara Police Station, who has long been under discussion for allegations of various irregularities, bribery, and intimidation.

Allegation of taking bribe from a mechanic: This incident occurred around 12:15 AM on the night of October 14, 2025, in the Terokhadiya area of Rajshahi Metropolitan. That day, wiring mechanic Rafiqul Islam Titu was taking a vehicle for a test drive after finishing work at a garage. While driving, the vehicle's lights suddenly malfunctioned, and it hit a road divider in the dark. Immediately, Laxmipur Police Box In-charge SI Karim and his associate ASI Shah Alam detained Titu. They accused Titu of being a drug-addicted driver, took him to the police box, and later threatened to implicate him in a narcotics case. According to the allegation, SI Karim extorted Tk 40,000 from Titu by threatening him with the case. After taking the money, Titu was produced in court under the RMP ordinance. This incident has already been published in local and national dailies.

Further allegations of corruption: Local sources indicate that SI Karim is not only involved in this incident but also regularly collects monthly extortion money (masohara) from middlemen at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, various private clinics, and markets. Laxmipur Kachabazar, footpath businesses, and even local shopkeepers are victims of his irregularities. Meanwhile, since the matter was exposed by journalists, an relative of wiring mechanic Titu has alleged that Titu is being intimidated and threatened.

Karim was controversial in the past too: SI Karim has previously served in various important positions within Rajshahi Metropolitan Police—such as in the Detective Branch (DB), Damkura Police Station, and the Shiroil Outpost of Boalia Police Station. However, wherever he went, he was known for allegations of political bias and harassment of opposition party leaders and activists. Locals say, "He was an officer patronized by the previous fascist government, who has survived for years using administrative influence."

Police Administration's Reaction: When asked about this, Rajpara Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Habibur Rahman said, "I am aware of the accident. But I don't know anything about the money transaction yet. SI Karim will be questioned to investigate the matter."

Reaction from Civil Society: Leaders of the Rajshahi City Protection Struggle Council, the Committee of Conscious Citizens (SONAK), and human rights organizations said, "In the past, the activities of some police members have tarnished the picture of law and order in Rajshahi Metropolitan. However, the current Police Commissioner, Mohammad Abu Sufian, is working tirelessly to bring the police administration onto the path of good governance. Therefore, swift and strict action is needed against those still involved in corruption."

Although the law and order situation in Rajshahi Metropolitan is relatively better now, the image of the police is being questioned due to some corrupt officers. If the allegation of taking a bribe from wiring mechanic Titu is true, it is not just an irregularity by one officer—it is a blow to the dignity of the entire force. The people of Rajshahi are now watching—will the police administration conduct a transparent investigation into this allegation, or will the incident once again be overshadowed by the influence of a powerful officer?

Daily Bijoy News / Md. Rajib Khan