Trivandrum: The Railway Protection Force (RPF), Thiruvananthapuram Division, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to passenger safety by swiftly cracking two daring cases of robbery from running trains during August 2025. In both incidents, the culprits were apprehended and the stolen property was recovered within 24 hours, showcasing the effectiveness of coordinated policing under Operation Yatri Suraksha.
The first incident occurred on 10th August 2025 when a passenger travelling in the front general coach of Train No. 16629 Thiruvananthapuram – Mangaluru Malabar Express was attacked near Aluva, while the train was moving at a slow speed after leaving Aluva station. While using his mobile phone by the door, he was struck with a stick by miscreants lurking near the track, who then snatched away his mobile phone. When the victim alighted from the slow-moving train, a group of youngsters further assaulted him, taking away his earphones and ₹700 in cash. Despite his ordeal, the passenger reached Aluva station and reported the crime to RPF and GRP. In a swift, well-coordinated operation, RPF Aluva, along with the Crime Prevention and Detection Squad, the Crime Intelligence Branch in close coordination with Government Railway Police (GRP) and local police, tracked the culprits. Within 18 hours, all six gang members were arrested, and the stolen property was recovered. The investigation revealed that the gang’s modus operandi involved prowling near railway tracks at night and targeting passengers travelling at coach doors or footboards.
Barely a week later, on 16th August 2025, a similar case was reported from Train No. 17230 Secunderabad – Thiruvananthapuram Sabari Express, when a passenger’s mobile phone was snatched by persons standing near the track while the train was passing through Ernakulam. With RPF assistance, he registered a complaint with GRP at Kottayam. A special team from RPF Ernakulam, guided by Inspector RPF/Ernakulam North, immediately launched an investigation. By 3:00 a.m. the next morning, three accused out of four suspects were apprehended from the Pullepady ROB area, and the stolen phone was recovered with their lead. After recording the arrest, they were subsequently handed over to the GRP for further legal proceedings.
Speaking on these events, Divisional Security Commissioner of RPF, Thiruvananthapuram Division, Shri Muhammed Haneef, IRPSF, said, “The swift detection of these cases reflects the synergy and dedication of RPF and GRP teams. We are intensifying surveillance and preventive measures in sensitive sections to ensure that such gangs do not succeed in endangering passengers.” He further added: “Passengers are urged to remain vigilant, avoid footboard travel or displaying valuables near doors and windows, and immediately report any suspicious activity to RPF or GRP. Your safety is our highest priority.”