Bhubaneswar: In a major breakthrough under Operation ‘Yatri Surakshya’, the Detective Wing of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) on Sunday apprehended a six-member criminal gang from the Coaching Complex in Puri.
The gang was caught while allegedly conspiring to commit dacoity on night-running trains between Puri and Khurda Road.
Acting on credible intelligence, RPF personnel intercepted the suspects and conducted a thorough search, leading to the recovery of 23 stolen mobile handsets, Rs 24,450 in cash, and other incriminating materials. The total value of the seized property has been estimated at Rs 7.13 lakh.
Preliminary interrogation revealed that the accused were involved in multiple incidents of mobile phone theft targeting passengers at various railway stations and public areas within station premises. The group also confessed to planning an organised dacoity on passenger trains operating in the region.
The arrested persons, along with the recovered items, have been handed over to the Government Railway Police (GRP) in Puri. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and further investigation is underway.
Officials stated that this operation is a part of the RPF’s ongoing efforts to enhance passenger safety and curb criminal activity on railway property. RPF reiterated their commitment to maintaining vigilance and ensuring secure travel for all railway users.
