Patna: A major theft incident was reported on Thursday morning on the 15623 Down Kamakhya Express, which was travelling from Jodhpur to Kamakhya. The incident took place at around 4.30am near Hardas Bigha station, when unknown thieves targeted passengers who were fast asleep. Moving quietly through the train, the miscreants stole purses and other valuable items from passengers in four different coaches before pulling the emergency chain and escaping. The sudden halt of the train created panic among passengers, many of whom woke up to realise their belongings were missing.
According to passengers, the thefts occurred in coaches B-1, B-6, A-1 and A-2. At least four passengers have confirmed that their purses were stolen during the incident. One of the victims, Kamlesh Kumar, who was travelling from Jodhpur to Kamakhya, said his purse contained cash, important documents and personal items. He was the first to report the matter through Rail Madad, the railway helpline, after which the complaint was forwarded to the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Passengers said the thieves took full advantage of the early morning hours, when most people were in deep sleep and the train was passing through a relatively quiet stretch. By the time the train reached New Barauni station after Patna, the criminals had already fled. Many travellers complained that there was no visible security staff in the coaches at night, making it easy for criminals to operate without fear.
The RPF has said that an investigation is underway and that statements are being taken from affected passengers. CCTV footage from nearby railway stations is also being examined to trace the suspects. The search has been intensified in areas close to where the emergency chain was pulled. Meanwhile, the incident has created fear among passengers, who are demanding stronger security measures, better night patrolling and increased vigilance on trains. The repeated cases of theft have once again raised serious questions about the safety of passengers travelling overnight by rail.
