Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, May 20: The Karnataka State Human Rights Commission’s (SHRC) police wing conducted surprise raids at two police stations in the city on Tuesday, uncovering the illegal detention of two individuals, including a local jeweller. The men were allegedly held in custody without any formal cases or First Information Reports (FIRs) registered against them.

The inspection team, led by deputy superintendent of police Ashanthnarayana, carried out the raids at the RMC Yard and Kothanur police stations. Officials stated that the police personnel were allegedly demanding gold and cash in exchange for the release of the illegally detained men.

According to SHRC officials, Rajesh Kumar Mehta was held at the RMC Yard police station for two days. His detention was reportedly based solely on the statement of an accused in a house break-in and theft case, who claimed to have sold stolen valuables to the jeweller. Despite Mehta denying any involvement and offering CCTV footage as proof of his innocence, the police allegedly pressured him to hand over 1 kg of gold.

In the second incident, Fardeen Pasha, an employee of a private firm, was allegedly kept in custody at the Kothanur police station for nearly three days without a formal complaint or FIR. Investigating officials alleged that the police demanded Rs 5 lac for his release under the pretext of conducting an inquiry.

During the surprise inspections, the SHRC team confirmed that neither of the detained men had been formally booked. Commission officials recorded the statements of both victims and ensured they were medically examined.

An official familiar with the inquiry stated that the preliminary investigation pointed to severe human rights violations, abuse of official authority, and illegal detention. Cases have been initiated against the two inspectors involved, and further investigations are currently underway.