Kolkata: Cops have busted a mobile phone theft racket operating on public buses, arresting the alleged kingpin —a bus conductor who harassed female passengers to steal their valuables.Accused Imran Hossen alias Sonu, from Maheshtala, was arrested on July 27. According to cops, multiple complaints of mobile theft were reported along the busy stretch between Minto Park and Hastings on AJC Bose Road, specifically on the 227 bus route between BNR and Bangur. Investigators revealed that Hossen carried out the crimes while working on the bus.Cops said Hossen would intentionally misbehave with female passengers on crowded buses. The resulting confusion and distress created a distraction, allowing him to steal their mobile phones. Acting on the rising number of complaints regarding harassment and missing phones, the Watch Section launched a discreet probe. Cops in plain clothes began travelling as regular passengers along the route. Through close surveillance and intelligence gathering, officers identified Hossen’s involvement. Hossen was produced in court and remanded in police custody. Investigators are currently questioning him to recover the stolen phones, locate illegal buyers, and track down associates linked to the theft network.Following the arrest, the bus owner has terminated Hossen’s service with immediate effect. Titu Saha of City Suburban Bus Service claimed they will help cops with the probe in every possible manner. “We are not getting dedicated bus workers due to uncertain income. Passenger safety is one of our major concerns as our business is entirely dependent on them,” said Saha.“We are committed to ensuring a smooth and secure commute in the city,” a DCP said.
