In a shocking incident and another embarrassment to Bengaluru City Police, a head constable from the Cyber Crime Branch (CCB) has been accused of stealing Rs. 11 lakh from a suspect's vehicle inside the Bengaluru City Police Headquarters. The discovery has led to the suspension of four police personnel and raised serious questions about accountability within the city police.
The incident reportedly took place on November 30 and came to light the next day, December 1. A suspect involved in a cybercrime case, who had recently secured bail, was brought in for questioning. His car, parked in the basement of the Commissioner's office, reportedly contained a bag with Rs.11 lakh in cash.
CCTV footage later revealed Head Constable Zabiullah allegedly taking the bag from the vehicle and transferring it to his house. The suspect, upon returning home, found the money missing and raised the complaint with the cybercrime officials.
Following the complaint, the Central Crime Branch conducted a raid at Zabiullah's residence. Authorities reportedly recovered part of the stolen cash hidden under his bed. Investigations revealed that some of the money had been used to purchase gold jewellery. Reports also suggest that Zabiullah attempted to obstruct the search.
Out of the Rs.11 lakh, he has returned Rs. 2 lakh. Police have directed him to return the remaining amount and warned of strict action pending the inquiry.
ASI Srinivas Murthy was reportedly negligent in handling complaints, which contributed to the lapse.
Why is Bengaluru Police Under Scrutiny?
This incident adds to a growing list of police misconduct cases in Bengaluru. Recently, a constable attached to Govindapura police station was arrested in connection with an ATM cash van robbery. Two J.P. Nagar police personnel were suspended for allegedly extorting money from a senior citizen. Bellandur police were also accused of collecting money from a bereaved family in a death case.
Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh confirmed that an inquiry is underway and assured stringent action. However, as of the last update, no FIR has been registered against the accused constable, and he has not been arrested.
The incident has sparked public concern over the integrity of police personnel and raised questions about internal accountability, especially in cases involving seized money or property.