Nairobi, Kenya- Nairobi County and the National Police Service have initiated a joint operation to combat a surge in criminal activity within the Central Business District (CBD).
This action comes in response to a public outcry and shocking video accounts on social media detailing a rise in mugging incidents, particularly those allegedly involving a substance known as “Devil’s Breath.”
New Tactics of Criminals and the “Devil’s Breath” Threat
According to Geoffrey Mosiria, the Chief Officer for Environment, youth gangs are using new, deceptive tactics to target civilians.
These criminals reportedly pose as “hustlers,” or even content creators, during the day before turning to theft around 5:00 PM. Some of these robberies have occurred in broad daylight, with groups of more than a dozen individuals overpowering victims at once.
A key concern is the use of scopolamine, a powerful chemical commonly called “Devil’s Breath.” This substance, derived from plants like Brugmansia and Datura, is a potent compound that can disorient and incapacitate individuals.
Criminals typically use it in powder form, blowing it into a victim’s face or transferring it through contaminated objects like paper or handshakes. Victims have reported feeling confused and disoriented, sometimes surrendering their belongings without realizing it.
Additional Threats and County’s Response
In addition to these organized gangs, Mosiria highlighted another threat: street families collaborating with illegal waste disposers. These individuals are reportedly dumping waste at night and then robbing residents before escaping into the backstreets. There are even disturbing reports of human waste being used as a tool for extortion.
To address this multifaceted problem, Nairobi County plans to remove street families from the CBD’s backstreets.
The police presence in the city center has also been increased, with additional officers deployed to monitor and deter thugs who are posing as content creators.
