A woman was robbed of cash and gold jewellery in Meherpur town on Sunday, 10 May, after being targeted by a fraudulent gang using a chemical tactic locally known as ‘Devil’s Breath’. The incident occurred during broad daylight at the busy Hotel Bazar intersection, a central hub of the town.
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Incident Overview
The victim, identified as Anwara Khatun, a resident of the Stadium Para area and wife of Yalid Hossain, was reportedly on her way to pay a utility bill. According to her statement, upon reaching the Hotel Bazar intersection at approximately midday, she was approached by an unidentified individual who initiated a conversation.
During the interaction, the suspect surreptitiously held a scented object or substance near her nose, prompting her to inhale it. Shortly thereafter, Mrs Khatun experienced symptoms of dizziness, physical weakness, and disorientation. Exploiting her diminished state of consciousness, the perpetrators seized 500 BDT in cash and removed two gold earrings from her ears before fleeing the scene.
Local bystanders assisted Mrs Khatun as she regained her senses and realised she had been the victim of a coordinated robbery.
Understanding Scopolamine (‘Devil’s Breath’)
The tactic described is frequently associated with Scopolamine, a substance derived from the nightshade family of plants. In criminal contexts, it is used to render victims docile and highly suggestible, often leaving them with little to no memory of the event.
| Feature | Details |
| Common Name | Devil’s Breath (Burundanga) |
| Chemical Name | Scopolamine |
| Method of Delivery | Inhalation, skin contact (via cards/tissues), or ingestion |
| Primary Effects | Loss of free will, disorientation, and anterograde amnesia |
| Criminal Application | Robbery, fraud, and coerced ATM withdrawals |
Escalating Public Concern
The incident has triggered significant alarm among the residents of Meherpur. Local citizens have alleged a noticeable increase in the activities of organized gangs, often referred to as the ‘Ogyan Party’ (unconscious party). Residents claim that these groups are increasingly targeting women in crowded marketplaces and public gatherings, employing various sedative techniques to facilitate theft.
Community members have expressed a growing need for enhanced security measures in commercial zones to deter such brazen daytime attacks.
Official Response and Security Measures
Muhaddid Morshed Chowdhury, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Meherpur District Detective Branch (DB), confirmed that the authorities have launched a formal investigation into the matter. He stated that detective surveillance has been intensified across the town to identify and apprehend the members of this fraudulent circle.
The police have issued the following security directives to the public:
Avoid Unsolicited Interactions: Exercise extreme caution when approached by strangers in public spaces.
Refuse Unknown Items: Do not accept or smell any items (such as handkerchiefs, visiting cards, or food) offered by unidentified individuals.
Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately notify the nearest police station or law enforcement officer if suspicious behaviour is observed.
The District Detective Branch has assured the public that they are reviewing available intelligence and monitoring known hotspots to prevent further occurrences of this chemical-facilitated robbery.