New terror in Dhaka: ‘Pen gun’, DB looking for source

A small firearm that looks like a pen has emerged as a new addition to the criminal world of the capital Dhaka. It is becoming popular among criminals due to its easy portability and convenience of concealment, which has created new concerns for law enforcement agencies.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Intelligence Department (DB) found this weapon while investigating the shooting incident of a youth leader in Old Dhaka on April 3. Two people named Sohel alias Kallu and Simon have been arrested in this incident.

DB Joint Commissioner (South) Md. Nasirul Islam said that Simon was first arrested from Jatrabari area with the help of information technology. Later, based on the information provided by him, Sohel was arrested in Keraniganj. The ‘pen gun’ used in the shooting was recovered from him.

He said that this is not a conventional firearm; Rather, it is a specially made pen-like weapon, known as a 'pen gun'. As there is no record of such weapons being used in the past, the matter is being seriously investigated.

Shooting while sitting in a chat

On the day of the incident, Jubo Dal leader Russell was shot while chatting at Simon's house in the Nayabazar area of ​​Old Dhaka. According to the allegations, the attack was planned by close friends. After the shooting, the injured Russell was first taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Later, realizing that the situation was serious, he was admitted to a private hospital in Dhanmondi, where he is currently undergoing treatment.

The plaintiff in the case, Faisal Hossain, said that his brother was shot after being called on a mobile phone and then an attempt was made to cover up the incident.

The weapon was hidden in a cigarette packet

During the operation, detectives found that the weapon used was hidden in a cigarette packet. Later, by assembling the parts, it was confirmed that it was a 'pen gun' - although it looks exactly like a pen, it is a deadly weapon.

Bought for 80 thousand taka

According to DB sources, arrested Sohel told the interrogation that the weapon was bought for 80 thousand taka. Later, there was a plan to sell it for a higher price. On the day of the incident, they got into an argument while consuming drugs together and at one point they were shot.

What is this ‘pen gun’

A ‘pen gun’ is basically a camouflaged firearm, which has a small firing mechanism inside. It is usually used to fire bullets at short distances. Due to its small size, it can be easily kept in a pocket or bag and is often not detected during searches.

How did it get to Dhaka

The law enforcement agencies believe that such weapons came to the country from abroad through smuggling. These weapons can enter through border areas or the online black market. In some cases, the possibility of bringing parts separately and assembling them in the country is not being ruled out.

The presence of this new type of weapon has caused concern among the law enforcement agencies. Although its use is still limited, the relevant authorities are emphasizing taking swift action to prevent its spread to crime in the future.