Five police officers have been temporarily suspended after Raja alias “Pichchi Raja”, an accused in 25 cases, escaped while being taken from a Dhaka court to Kashimpur Central Jail. A three-member inquiry committee has also been formed to investigate the incident.
Gazipur Metropolitan Police Commissioner (Acting) Mohammad Taherul Haque Chowhan confirmed the matter on Monday (September 28).
He said five police officers were temporarily suspended over the escape. A three-member inquiry committee headed by the DC Headquarters has also been formed to investigate the incident.
According to police and prison sources, Pichchi Raja was taken to Dhaka by prison van on Sunday morning to appear before the Dhaka Metropolitan Court. After the court proceedings, he was being taken back to Kashimpur Central Jail-1.
When the prison van reached the Baimail-Nawjor area of Gazipur, Pichchi Raja reportedly asked to use a toilet. A police officer responsible for escorting the accused took him to a nearby toilet, from where he managed to escape.
Police sources said Pichchi Raja faces between 20 and 25 cases, including drug- and arms-related cases. A Mohammadpur police source said he was arrested on May 19 this year. Police have said there are 25 cases against him.
According to police, Pichchi Raja was known for his alleged involvement in a drug network based around the Geneva Camp area of Mohammadpur. Police said he was taken into custody at the airport after returning to Bangladesh from Nepal with his wife and brother-in-law.
Authorities are examining the role of the police personnel responsible for escorting him. The temporary suspension of five officers and formation of the inquiry committee are part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Gazipur Metropolitan Police Commissioner (Acting) Mohammad Taherul Haque Chowhan said further action would be taken after the inquiry committee submits its findings.
