Phones, gold jewelleries allegedly stolen at Azhari's waz mahfil in Jashore; over 350 GDs filed
The incident occurred last night at the Ad-din Sakina Medical College and Hospital premises and surrounding areas of Pulerhat in the city
Hundreds of attendees at Islamic scholar Mizanur Rahman Azhari's waz mahfil in Jashore have reported thefts of mobile phones, gold jewelleries and other valuables, prompting over 350 general diary (GD) filings with the city's Kotwali Model Police Station.
"The incident occurred last night [3 January] at the Ad-din Sakina Medical College and Hospital premises and surrounding areas of Pulerhat in the city," the police station's duty officer Sharmin Akter told The Business Standard today (4 January).
"As of this evening, over 350 GDs have been filed regarding the theft incidents. Police anticipate the number of GDs may rise significantly as more victims come forward," she added.
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One of the victims, Ibrahim Hossain from Rupdia, reported the theft of his mother's gold necklace. He shared, "My mother realised her necklace was missing while listening to Azhari's speech, which is why I came to file a GD."
Hayrat Hossain from Noapara also filed a GD after his wife's chain was stolen, expressing disappointment over the lack of security and calling for better management at such events.
Enamul Haque, a resident from Bejpara area of the city, said, "This was one of the largest gatherings in Jashore's history. I went to the religious gathering to strengthen my faith but it seems to have attracted thieves who saw it as a chance to exploit the situation.
"Many people came from far places and couldn't file a GD as they couldn't produce the necessary documents. Those who commit such thefts at religious gatherings should be brought to book."
Kotwali Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abdur Razzak told TBS that the three-day waz mahfil in Jashore started on 1 January where at least 5-7 lakh people attended.
"We have received reports of thefts. Many have filed GDs. Police are taking necessary measures," he added.
Talking about a stampede at the mahfil, the OC said, "Rumours are spreading on social media about deaths and injuries due to a stampede. There have been no reports of deaths. I request everyone to refrain from spreading such rumours."
