News
Strangers prey on travellers
Passengers on long-distance buses are at risk of falling prey to thieves who persuade them to take food and drinks laced with a substance that knocks people out, several incidents have revealed.
Recently, a pastor on a night journey to Nuwara Eliya had woken up in hospital after sharing a meal and a dessert offered by a stranger.
Health workers have noticed that about eight passengers on such routes have been persuaded to take a substance that puts people to sleep.
The pastor of a Colombo-based Church has been travelling to Nuwara Eliya when at Thiriyaya, a suspect offered to share his food and gave a sweet made from juggery and honey. The pastor had wanted to keep the sweet for later, but the suspect persuaded him to eat it.
By the time he had reached Nittambuwa he had felt dizzy and had called home to say so.
When he regained consciousness in hospital in Nuwara Eliya, he said he could identify the suspect.
While he had removed his gold ring and put it in a bag, others had not been able to protect their valuables.
The pastor said he remembered the suspect offering a drink, which, he refused.
He said security in public transport needs to be strengthened by the public and private operators.