Illegal stun gun trade: A crime trap in disguise of self-defense

A terrifying trend is quietly spreading on social media. ‘High voltage stun guns’ are now being openly sold on various Facebook pages and groups. The advertisements claim that this is an effective weapon for self-defense. But according to experts, this stun gun can pose a serious risk not only to the user but also to the life of the potential victim.

Although this stun gun looks small, it contains the power of high-voltage electricity. According to the publicity, anyone who gets shocked by it can lose consciousness in an instant. In reality, using this ‘weapon’ can also cause a dangerous situation like cardiac arrest. Therefore, doctors warn that if the shock is given for a long time, death is inevitable.

Robbers' tools in the name of self-defense
Although initially popular as a self-defense tool, law enforcement officials have expressed concern that these stun guns are now reaching the hands of robbers and terrorists. They said that if someone shocks a pedestrian with such a weapon in the dark of night or on a sparsely populated street, the victim will immediately become unconscious. Then it will be possible to easily snatch cash, mobile phones, or other valuables.

An official of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police said on condition of anonymity: "Stun gun import has no official permission. They are entering the country illegally and are being sold on social media platforms. We fear that the level of violence may increase if they fall into the hands of criminals."

Uncontrolled online market
Stun guns are being advertised by posting directly on some Facebook groups and pages. Sellers are posting pictures of the product, prices, and delivery terms. Some are posting videos showing how the stun guns work. The interest of the youth in these posts is also noticeable. Buyers are assured of the 'cash on delivery' service, so that they do not have to face any trouble before receiving the product.

Legal experts say that the sale and use of such devices is completely prohibited under the Arms Act. But due to the lack of control and awareness, online sellers are continuing their business almost freely.

Experts' warning
Doctors and safety experts say that high-voltage shocks have a serious effect on the body. Even in a person who is not suffering from any disease under normal circumstances, it can disrupt the heart rhythm. And for those who have heart disease, high blood pressure, or neurological weakness, it increases the risk of death many times over.

A doctor from the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College said: "Many people think that giving a shock will only cause temporary numbness, but in reality it often causes permanent damage - oxygen supply to the brain can be cut off, nerves can be damaged, and even death can occur."

Shock guns are dangerous in the hands of ordinary people
Public health expert Dr. Lelin Chowdhury told Views Bangladesh: “5000-10000 volt shocks are mainly used in prisons or by the police to arrest criminals or to immobilize them. If it gets into the hands of the common people, it will undoubtedly be misused and used in criminal activities. That is not acceptable in any way. Just as lithium weapons or arms should not be given to the common people, care should be taken to ensure that stun guns do not reach the common people. New types of crimes are increasing every day, and the easy availability of stun guns will further encourage criminal tendencies.”

Position of law enforcement
DMP Deputy Police Commissioner (Media and Publication Wing) Talebur Rahman said, “I am not aware of the issue. If anyone complains, we will take action.”

Urgent action needed
According to experts, it is necessary to stop the sale of these illegal stun guns through strict surveillance and operations. In addition, it is important to run a campaign in the media and on social media to make the public aware. If law enforcement wants, they can use technology to identify and shut down Facebook pages and groups.

This deadly weapon, which came to the market in the name of self-defense, has become a threat not only to personal safety but also to social safety. Now is the time to take action before this new terror called shock guns becomes an 'easy weapon' in the hands of criminals.