India to weaponize world's hottest chilli

The Indian military has confirmed plans to turn the world's hottest chilli species into a weapon.

Following tests, the military has decided to use the Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Chilli) to make grenades similar to tear gas for immobilising purposes, The AP reports.

Defence spokesman in the state of Assam Col. R. Kalia said: "The chilli grenade has been found fit for use after trials in Indian defence laboratories, a fact confirmed by scientists at the Defence Research and Development Organisation [DRDO]."

R. B. Srivastava, Director of the Life Sciences Department at the New Delhi headquarters of the DRDO, confirmed: "This is definitely going to be an effective non-toxic weapon because its pungent smell can choke terrorists and force them out of their hide-outs."

Srivastava added that trials were ongoing to use the chilli in a personal-defence spray for women and for police to disperse crowds.

In 2007, the Bhut Jolokia replaced the Red Savina as the world's hottest chilli pepper according to Guinness World Records.