Mumbai police have apprehended Ashish Bootiram Sayal, a 32-year-old office assistant employed at renowned music composer Pritam Chakraborty’s studio, for allegedly absconding with Rs.40 lakh in cash. The incident occurred on February 4, 2025, at Pritam’s Goregaon West studio. Sayal, who had been with the studio for seven years, was arrested in Jammu, and authorities have recovered Rs.34 lakh of the stolen funds.
The Incident
On February 4, producer Madhu Mantena sent a bag containing Rs.40 lakh to Pritam’s studio as part of a business transaction. The studio’s manager, Vinit Chheda, secured the bag in a drawer in the presence of staff members, including Sayal. Chheda then left the studio to obtain documents from Pritam’s residence within the same building. Upon returning, he discovered both Sayal and the cash missing. Assuming Sayal had taken the bag to Pritam, Chheda did not immediately raise an alarm. However, when Sayal failed to return, Chheda filed a complaint with the Malad police.
Investigation and Arrest
The Malad police initiated an investigation, tracking Sayal’s mobile phone to the Samba district in Jammu. A team was dispatched, and Sayal was apprehended on February 12. He was subsequently brought back to Mumbai on a transit remand. Authorities managed to recover Rs.34 lakh of the stolen amount from him.
Legal Proceedings
Sayal has been charged under Section 381 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to theft by a servant of property in possession of the master. The Malad police are continuing their investigation to trace the remaining Rs.6 lakh and to determine if any accomplices were involved.
Background
Pritam Chakraborty, a prominent figure in Bollywood music, is known for his work on films such as “Barfi!”, “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,” and “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.” The incident has raised concerns about internal security measures within the entertainment industry, especially regarding the handling of large cash transactions.
Industry Implications
This theft highlights the necessity for stringent security protocols in studios and offices handling substantial cash amounts. Employers are encouraged to conduct thorough background checks on employees and implement robust surveillance systems to prevent similar incidents.
Conclusion
The swift action by Mumbai police in apprehending the suspect and recovering a significant portion of the stolen funds underscores the efficiency of law enforcement agencies. As the investigation continues, it serves as a reminder to the industry about the importance of internal security and the need for vigilance in financial dealings.
