In a dramatic turn of events on the Simanta Express, a member of the infamous “knockout gang” was caught red-handed after attempting to drug two female passengers — only to end up unconscious himself.

The incident took place early Saturday morning in coach “J,” seats 78 and 79, on the Khulna-bound Simanta Express heading toward Chilahati.

According to witnesses, the man boarded the train disguised as a passenger and struck up a conversation with two women sitting beside him. After persistent persuasion, he convinced them to drink juice he had brought. Moments later, both women lost consciousness, and the suspect began removing their earrings and nose rings.

A fellow passenger, noticing the suspicious behavior, intervened and caught the suspect, later identified as Ful Mia, red-handed. To confirm his doubts, passengers forced him to drink from the same juice. Within minutes, he too collapsed, proving the concoction was laced with sedatives.

All three — the two victims and the assailant — were rushed to the railway hospital, where they are currently under treatment.

Officer-in-Charge Mahmud-un Nabi confirmed that a written complaint has been filed. “Legal action will be taken as per procedure,” he said.