Habitual offender arrested for drugging, robbing elderly; 81 yo dies after consuming poisoned lassi

The Detection of Crime Branch in Ahmedabad has arrested a 55-year-old woman accused of targeting elderly persons living alone, drugging them under the pretext of offering assistance, and robbing them of cash and valuables. In the latest case, police said an 81-year-old man died after allegedly consuming sedative-laced lassi served by the accused in the Dariyapur area.

The accused has been identified as Lataben alias Gulab alias Lakdi Chauhan, a habitual offender with multiple criminal cases registered against her across the city.

According to the Crime Branch, the woman allegedly identified elderly couples or individuals living in isolation and gained their trust by offering to help with household chores and food arrangements. Once inside their homes, she would allegedly administer intoxicants in food or drink before committing theft.

In the present case, police said Lataben allegedly approached Abdulbhai Ismailbhai Sipai, 81, and his wife at their residence in Sajjan Jamadar’s Mohalla near Delhi Chakla in Dariyapur. She allegedly served the couple lassi laced with sedatives, after which both lost consciousness.

Police said the accused then allegedly fled with cash from the house. Abdulbhai’s condition deteriorated due to the heavy dosage of the substance allegedly administered to him, and he later died during treatment, turning the case into one of murder.

Investigators said the Crime Branch used a combination of technical surveillance and human intelligence to trace the accused. Officers scrutinised records of offenders with a similar modus operandi and, acting on a tip-off, conducted a raid in the Shahpur area, where Lataben was apprehended from her residence.

Police said the accused has a long criminal history, with at least nine previous offences registered against her at various police stations in Ahmedabad, including cases of theft, house-breaking and gambling-related offences.

She has been booked in the present case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges relating to murder, administering poison/intoxicants, theft and common intention.

The accused has been handed over to Dariyapur police for further investigation.

Police have urged residents, particularly senior citizens, to remain cautious and avoid accepting food or beverages from unknown persons.