Family of Missing Bangladeshi Photographer Seeks to Intensify Kolkata Search
The mysterious disappearance of Bangladeshi professional photographer Syed Abdullah Johi, aged 38, from the Kestopur area of Kolkata one month ago has left his family and relatives desperate for answers. In a bid to escalate the search process, Johi's family members are now planning to travel to Kolkata to personally oversee and intensify the investigation into his whereabouts.
Details of the Disappearance and Ongoing Investigation
Johi, the son of renowned Bangladeshi sculptor Syed Abdullah Khalid, arrived in Kolkata with his wife, Masrufa Tasmin, on February 10. The couple was in the city for IVF treatment under a medical visa. Tragically, Johi went missing on March 11, and despite extensive efforts, there has been no trace or clue about his location since that day.
A formal missing person complaint was lodged at the Baguiati Police Station on March 11, and authorities have been conducting an ongoing investigation. However, progress has been slow, leaving the family in a state of anguish and uncertainty.
Family's Frustration and Personal Accounts
Masrufa Tasmin, Johi's wife, expressed her deep frustration and sorrow in a recent interview. "I call up Baguiati Police Station almost three times a week from Dhaka, hoping there might be some progress in the investigation, but every time I get depressed," she said. Tasmin recounted the day of the disappearance, noting that Johi left their room on the afternoon of March 11 to smoke and never returned. "We had a doctor's appointment that day," she recalled, highlighting the sudden and unexplained nature of the incident.
After receiving clearance from the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission and the Foreign Regional Registration Office in Kolkata, Tasmin returned to Bangladesh on March 22. In a hopeful gesture, she has kept Johi's passport in the custody of Ripon Mondal, who had been assisting the couple with their infertility treatment arrangements.
Community Efforts and Background Information
Ripon Mondal, who has been liaising with the couple regarding their treatment and arranged their long-term stay in Kestopur, shared his shock over the incident. "I have been in this business for the last 12 years, mainly facilitating Bangladeshi patients, but I have never witnessed such a bizarre incident," he stated. Mondal added that they have prepared posters and leaflets with Johi's missing information and contact details, which will soon be distributed and posted across Kolkata to aid in the search.
Johi's cell phone, initially missing, was later discovered lying on a two-wheeler parked in a nearby lane in the Prafulla Kanan West area where they were staying. This finding has only added to the mystery surrounding his disappearance.
Family Background and Personal Struggles
Umme Kulsum, Johi's mother, provided insight into his personal life, revealing that he was the youngest of her three children. "Johi tied the knot three years ago and was depressed over not having a child. He had also developed some mental illness," she said, suggesting possible factors that might have contributed to the situation.
Johi's father, Syed Abdullah Khalid, who passed away in 2017, was a celebrated Bangladeshi sculptor and painter. He is best known for creating "Aparajeyo Bangla" (Invincible Bengal), one of the most iconic monuments dedicated to the Muktijoddha (Freedom Fighters) of the 1971 Liberation War. This sculpture, commissioned in 1973, is situated at the University of Dhaka and stands as a testament to his legacy.
Current Status and Future Steps
As the investigation continues, Johi's family remains hopeful but anxious. With plans to travel to Kolkata, they aim to work closely with local authorities and community members to uncover any leads. The case has drawn attention due to Johi's prominent family background and the unusual circumstances of his disappearance, underscoring the need for a thorough and expedited search effort.
The Baguiati Police Station is urged to provide regular updates and intensify their efforts to resolve this distressing case, bringing closure to a family grappling with uncertainty and loss.
