How the boy was saved from Blue Whale

A student of Chittagong University had gradually been drawn into the treacherous Blue Whale online game that reportedly can drive one to suicide. Learning about his predicament, the Chittagong district police counseled him and he has finally decided to give up the game. The police will monitor the student’s online use for the next six months.

Chittagong’s additional district police super (North) Mohammed Mashiuddowla on Wednesday told Prothom Alo, a first year student of Chittagong University on 5 October night clicked a link that had popped up on his Messenger and downloaded the Blue Whale game. He played four levels. Another student of the university found his behavior suspicious and reported it to this police officer. The officer on Tuesday took the boy into their custody. He counseled the student who eventually realised his mistake.

The student spoke to the media on Wednesday afternoon at the Halishahar district police super office, explaining how he downloaded the game out of curiousity. Now he has realised how wrong that was. He said no one should play this game. He showed a blue whale which he had cut into his arm with a blade.

The police officer called upon everyone to be careful in using cell phones, tabs, and Internet. He said if any unusual behavior of children is noticed, the police should be informed immediately. Guardians and other responsible persons can play a constructive role in this regard. The person who attempts suicide will be sentenced to a year’s imprisonment and/or fine.

The Blue Whale game is no interactive. The game administrator issues instructions to the player. There is one task or challenge after another. The player performs these tasks and sends the videos of this to the administrator. The last instruction is issued on the 50th day. And that is to commit suicide.