This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
On June 30, 2019, a daring robbery attempt was foiled in Narok town when two suspects were caught stealing from a Mpesa shop.
The suspects had used a drug known as Scopolamine, or 'Devil's Breath,' to drug the shop attendant, Margaret Mantaine, before emptying the cashbox.
However, their plan was thwarted by Margaret's relative, John Maina, who sensed something was amiss and entered the shop to find the two suspects and Margaret in a confused state.
"When I entered the shop, I found her confused, dizzy, weak and her vision was blurry. I realized all was not well and raised the alarm as I battled the two men," John Maina recounted.
Angered by the suspects' actions, a mob gathered outside the shop, but police arrived and dispersed the crowd by shooting in the air.
The two suspects were arrested and taken to Narok Police Station, where they were found to have stolen Sh200,000, which was later recovered.
According to Joseph ole Nkamasiai, a doctor at Narok County Referral Hospital, Scopolamine is a potent drug that can render victims helpless, allowing the perpetrators to steal from them without resistance.
"You can give out your ATM PIN and card, the money in your pocket or purse and M-Pesa transfer details without being coerced," Dr. Nkamasiai explained.
