A self-proclaimed “Jinn King” has been arrested in Bogura for allegedly deceiving members of the public by promising spiritual blessings and healing rituals, ultimately extorting substantial sums of money. The suspect, Mahidul Islam, aged 35, was apprehended during a special operation led by the Detective Branch (DB) on Thursday night in Sonatala Upazila.
The arrest followed a formal complaint filed by retired Army Warrant Officer Mominur Rahman, who accused Mahidul of drugging him under the guise of a spiritual ritual and subsequently stealing Tk 12 lakh. The police announced the arrest in a press briefing delivered by Additional Superintendent of Police (Media) Md Atowar Rahman on Friday, 5 December.
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Background of the Suspect
Mahidul hails from Raniarpur village and is the son of Tojam Akand. For months, he had allegedly been posing as a powerful spiritual figure capable of communicating with supernatural beings, particularly jinns. His fabricated identity as a spiritual healer allowed him to exploit individuals seeking divine intervention in matters such as health, finance and family problems.
According to investigators, Mahidul would frequently attend religious gatherings and Islamic events, where he targeted unsuspecting attendees with stories of supernatural abilities. It was at an Islamic assembly in Mahasthangarh that he first met the complainant.
How the Fraud Took Place
Police allege that on 7 September, Mahidul invited the victim under the pretence of performing a special ritual jhar-fook designed to alleviate personal distress. During the session, he served the victim food that had been mixed with sedatives. As the victim became disoriented, the accused proceeded to extract money from him by both direct cash collection and mobile financial transfers.
In total, Mahidul allegedly acquired Tk 12 lakh, leaving the victim in a vulnerable and confused state. Authorities later confirmed the authenticity of the complaint after conducting a thorough preliminary investigation.
Items Seized During the Raid
Police recovered a range of objects that the accused used to construct an illusion of mystical power. Among the items seized were:
- Ritual bones
- Containers of kohl used in spiritual ceremonies
- Red and white ritual cloths
- Amulets and talismans
- Incense and attar
- A religious display board
- Black thread associated with magical protection
These objects were displayed prominently during his so-called healing rituals, convincing victims of his purported supernatural influence.
Confession and Ongoing Investigation
Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to orchestrating fraudulent activities using drug-laced food as a tool to overpower victims. Police officials believe he may have deceived others in a similar manner and expect more victims to come forward.
A case has been filed at Sonatala Police Station, and authorities are continuing their investigation to determine whether the suspect was part of a wider network or operating independently.
The police have reiterated a strong warning to the public to avoid individuals claiming paranormal or mystical abilities, emphasising that such fraudulent practices often take advantage of emotionally distressed people.