Devil's Breath Fraud in Cox's Bazar Linked to ISI-Backed Criminal Network
An alarming incident in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, saw two Pakistani nationals use 'Devil's Breath' (scopolamine) to incapacitate and rob a shopkeeper, sparking widespread fear. This sophisticated fraud highlights a dangerous new criminal method. Authorities link the rise of such foreign-linked operations to a policy change removing security clearance for Pakistani nationals, facilitating an ISI-backed network. These groups exploit vulnerable stranded Pakistanis for drug trafficking, counterfeiting, and scopolamine smuggling, posing a growing cross-border threat. Warnings have been issued for extreme caution against unfamiliar individuals.
Businesses in Cox's Bazar are on high alert after two Pakistani nationals allegedly used a potent chemical sedative, 'Devil's Breath' (scopolamine), to incapacitate and rob a shopkeeper. The culprits engaged the victim in conversation, discreetly applying the substance to an item, rendering him dazed and compliant before fleeing with cash. This sophisticated method has triggered significant alarm within the business community, as scopolamine is notorious globally for its ability to disorient victims, making them unable to resist commands.Authorities and intelligence sources connect this incident to a troubling pattern emerging since the Yunus administration removed mandatory security clearance for Pakistani nationals last year. This policy change has reportedly facilitated the infiltration of ISI-backed organized criminal groups into Bangladesh. These networks, collaborating with elements from the stranded Pakistani community, are linked to narcotics trafficking, counterfeit currency, and scopolamine smuggling. They are exploiting vulnerable individuals, including women and children from densely populated Geneva Camps in Dhaka, Rangpur, and Saidpur, as couriers and accomplices.The criminal enterprise also leverages these stranded Pakistanis to infiltrate India, expanding its operations across borders. Law enforcement has issued urgent warnings to all traders and vendors in Cox’s Bazar to exercise extreme caution with strangers, particularly foreigners, advising them to avoid handling unknown objects offered near their face and to report any suspicious behavior immediately. The incident serves as a stark reminder of evolving criminal tactics and the heightened vulnerability of tourist-dependent cities.
