In a shocking incident, a long-time employee of renowned music director Pritam Chakraborty has been accused of stealing Rs 40 lakh from his studio. The accused, Ashish Sayal, who had worked as an office boy at Unimus Record Pvt Ltd for seven years, allegedly made away with the hefty amount on the pretext of delivering it to Chakraborty’s residence. This case has raised concerns about internal security measures in workplaces, especially in high-profile industries like Bollywood.
The Incident
According to the FIR filed by the Malad police, the theft took place on February 4 at Unimus Record Pvt Ltd, located in the Rustomjee Ozone building on the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road. On that day, film producer Madhu Mantena had sent a bag containing Rs 40 lakh to the studio as part of a business transaction.
Chakraborty’s manager, Vinit Chheda, 29, received the bag and placed it in a drawer in the presence of three staff members: Ashish Sayal, Ahmad Khan, and Kamal Disha. Chheda later left for Chakraborty’s residence, located in the same building, assuming the money was secure. However, when he returned, he found the bag missing.
Discovery of the Theft
Upon inquiring, Ahmad Khan informed Chheda that Sayal had taken the bag, claiming he was going to deliver it to Chakraborty’s residence. However, Sayal never reached his destination, nor did he return to the studio. Attempts to contact him were unsuccessful as his phone was switched off, leading to suspicions of theft.
Initially, Chakraborty believed that Sayal, being a long-time employee, would return. However, when Sayal failed to show up even after an entire night, the music director instructed his manager to report the matter to the police.
Police Investigation and Legal Action
Following the complaint, the Malad police registered a case against Sayal and began their investigation. Efforts to trace him are ongoing, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage from the studio and surrounding areas to gather evidence.
The police have filed the case under sections related to theft and criminal breach of trust. Given that Sayal was a trusted employee with no prior criminal record, this incident has left the studio staff in disbelief.
Industry Reactions and Security Concerns
Theft within high-profile establishments like music studios is rare but not unheard of. This case has sparked discussions within Bollywood regarding security measures at workplaces handling large cash transactions. Many professionals in the industry are now advocating for stricter protocols, such as:
- Increased CCTV surveillance in offices and studios.
- Implementing a dual-authentication system for handling large cash transactions.
- Ensuring multiple trusted employees oversee financial exchanges.
- Strengthening background checks before hiring staff for sensitive positions.
The Accused: Ashish Sayal’s Profile
Ashish Sayal had been working at Unimus Record Pvt Ltd for seven years. Described as a quiet and responsible employee, he was entrusted with various duties, including office maintenance and assisting with errands. His alleged involvement in the theft has surprised many, as there had been no previous suspicions regarding his conduct.
Police are now investigating whether this was a planned act or if Sayal was influenced or coerced by external factors. Given the large sum involved, authorities are also probing whether there were any accomplices in the crime.
Conclusion
The theft at Pritam Chakraborty’s studio has highlighted the need for robust security measures in workplaces dealing with large sums of money. While the investigation is still underway, this case serves as a reminder for businesses to ensure proper financial handling protocols and employee monitoring to prevent such incidents.
As the police continue their search for Sayal, industry professionals and business owners alike are taking note of this case to reinforce security within their organizations. The coming days will determine whether justice will be served and whether this incident prompts stronger safeguards in similar work environments.
