Local residents detained a police constable named Mursalin in Hetimganj Bazar of Golapganj, Sylhet, on Thursday evening on suspicion of attempting to steal a motorcycle. They handed him over to Golapganj police after he took a motorcycle for what was described as a test ride. A man accompanying him, Oliur Islam, was also taken into police custody for questioning.

Residents said Mursalin came to the market claiming he wanted to buy a motorcycle and became suspicious when he rode away after examining one. They chased and detained him, during which he identified himself as a police member. Mursalin denied stealing the motorcycle, saying he had gone there to purchase it and was beaten after residents mistakenly suspected him of theft.

Oliur Islam said he was Mursalin’s grandfather and had accompanied him because Mursalin intended to buy a motorcycle. Police said Mursalin was a constable posted at Beanibazar police station and had not returned to duty after leave earlier this month. Officers are investigating whether the motorcycle was taken with theft intent and whether Oliur Islam was involved.