The Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe has warned residents to be on high alert over a disturbing method recently uncovered from suspects in police custody.
Speaking during an interview on AIT Live News, Edafe revealed that criminals are now deploying white handkerchiefs to hypnotize unsuspecting members of the public before robbing them.
Explaining the suspectsâ modus operandi, the police spokesman said they usually target individuals they consider vulnerable, often approaching them with a simple request for directions. However, the seemingly harmless interaction quickly turns into an attack.
âThese suspects will see somebody they perceive to be vulnerable and ask that person for direction. Once that person gives them direction, thatâs it. They use white handkerchief. Once they use it to touch the suspect, the suspect will lose consciousness,â SP Edafe stated.
He disclosed that victims under this spell usually lose control of themselves and later discover that their phones, money, and other belongings had been stolen. In some cases, the affected persons reportedly wandered off aimlessly before regaining full consciousness, with little or no recollection of the encounter.
Edafe cautioned members of the public to be more security conscious, especially when approached by strangers in lonely or suspicious places. He advised people not to let down their guard and to immediately report unusual encounters to the nearest police station.
Reassuring residents, the Commandâs spokesperson said operatives are intensifying efforts to track down and dismantle criminal groups involved in the practice. He added that the police will also continue sensitization campaigns to ensure that the public is well informed about such tricks.
This revelation highlights the evolving strategies criminals employ and the need for heightened vigilance across Delta State
