Over 200 mobile phones were reportedly stolen during the recording of popular magazine show Ityadi in Kalai upazila of Joypurhat district on Saturday evening, as pickpockets took advantage of a massive crowd.
Police arrested one suspect, identified as Golam Ratan, 48, son of Golam Rabbani of Bhadsah area in Joypurhat Sadar upazila, from the venue.
Around 10,000 spectators gathered at the historic Nandail Dighi College ground on Saturday evening to watch the show, which was planned and directed by Hanif Sanket, organisers and locals said.
Despite security deployed by the district administration, including 250 police personnel, 50 scouts and 100 local volunteers, an organised gang of thieves targeted attendees during the event, stealing phones from pockets and bags.
Inspector (Investigation) Imayedul Zahedi of Kalai Police Station said around 70 to 80 victims lodged verbal complaints at the police station after the show ended, though police estimate between 150 and 200 phones were stolen in total.
Legal action will follow formal written complaints, he said.