Bihar Police Uncover Train Robbery Syndicate, Seize Rs 1 Crore in Jewels
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Patna, March 19 (NationPress) A significant train robbery syndicate has been dismantled in Bhagalpur thanks to a coordinated effort by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP), according to official sources.
As a result of this operation, valuables including gold and silver jewellery valued at around Rs 1 crore were seized. This haul featured 500 grams of gold and 1.5 kilograms of silver, all recovered from a rented residence in Maheshpur, located within the jurisdiction of Babarganj police station.
Two main suspects, identified as Sanjay Yadav and Paltu Sahni, have been taken into custody.
Railway SRP Vidyasagar reported that GRP Inspector Naseem Ahmed received intelligence regarding suspicious activities around 4:45 am, prompting a joint operation with RPF Inspector A. K. Giri.
Although initial searches did not yield immediate results, further checks on the Jamalpur-Howrah Express raised suspicions about the accused.
During questioning, Sanjay Yadav provided vital information that directed the police to the hideout in Maheshpur.
A raid at the rented location uncovered a substantial stash of jewellery cleverly concealed within a secret compartment in one of the rooms.
The confiscated items included gold bangles, chains, pendant chains, pearl necklaces, bracelets, maang tikas, silver anklets, and various other ornaments.
In addition, foreign currencies from the United States, Malaysia, and Australia were also found.
SP Vidyasagar indicated that Sanjay Yadav, from Bariarpur in Munger district, is believed to be connected to an international criminal organization, while Paltu Sahani hails from Parbatta Raghupur.
During their interrogation, the suspects implicated two local jewellers who are now under scrutiny.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the gang operated via pickpocketing and theft on trains, employing razor blades to discreetly cut open bags. A blade was also seized from the accused.
“The gang comprises around 15 members, and operations are ongoing to capture additional individuals involved,” he stated.
Authorities have advised passengers to remain alert, assuring that surveillance efforts by GRP and RPF teams have been heightened across railway stations and trains.
Officials noted that this crackdown aims to deter criminal activities and improve passenger safety on railways.