Two Police Constables Suspended for Stealing iPhone Worth Rs 1.6 Lakh in Jaunpur
In a shocking incident that has raised serious questions about police integrity, two constables were suspended after being caught on camera stealing a high-value iPhone from a mobile phone store in Jaunpur district. The theft, which involved an iPhone priced at Rs 1.6 lakh, occurred at Haycee crossing under the jurisdiction of the Line Bazar police station.
CCTV Footage Exposes the Theft
According to Jaunpur's SP (City) Ayush Srivastava, the incident took place on February 7. Police constables Mithilesh Yadav and Dhananjay Bind visited the mobile phone store owned by Shivam. They asked the woman at the counter to show them some new phone variants, engaging her in conversation for about 20 minutes while examining different models.
During this time, one of the constables discreetly took an old iPhone from his pocket and switched it with a brand-new iPhone kept on the counter. The saleswoman failed to notice the act, and both constables left the shop shortly after.
Theft Discovered During Stock Reconciliation
The theft came to light when shop proprietor Shivam conducted a stock reconciliation and found one iPhone, valued at Rs 1.6 lakh, missing. Despite repeated searches, the phone could not be located, prompting Shivam to review the store's CCTV camera recordings.
The footage clearly showed the two constables exchanging the mobile phones, providing undeniable evidence of their misconduct. Shivam immediately brought the matter to the attention of senior police officials the next day.
Swift Action and Investigation
Upon learning of the incident, senior officials summoned constables Yadav and Bind. The stolen iPhone was recovered and returned to the shop owner. Taking serious note of the breach of trust, SP Ayush Srivastava ordered the immediate suspension of both accused constables.
A departmental investigation has been initiated against Mithilesh Yadav and Dhananjay Bind to examine the full extent of their actions and determine appropriate disciplinary measures. This case highlights ongoing concerns about police accountability and the need for stringent oversight to prevent such incidents in the future.
