₹35.45 Lakh Train Theft Solved in 48 Hours; Accused Arrested, Entire Valuables Recovered

Mumbai : In a remarkable and swift operation, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and Local Crime Branch (LCB) cracked a high-profile theft case involving valuables worth ₹35.45 lakh within just 48 hours.

The victim, a 73-year-old woman from Indore, was travelling with her husband to Lonavala to attend a religious Bhagwat function. On the night of June 19, she went to sleep keeping her handbag—containing diamond jewellery, gold ornaments, and ₹50,000 in cash—securely tucked under her arm. Upon waking near Lonavala at around 7:30 AM on June 20, she discovered her bag missing and immediately alerted the Indian Railways by dialling helpline 139. An FIR was promptly filed at GRP Lonavala.

Multiple investigation teams were dispatched along the train’s route, which covered major stations like Indore, Ujjain, Surat, Vasai Road, Kalyan, and Lonavala. CCTV footage at Kalyan station revealed suspicious behavior of one passenger who lingered at the station and avoided security cameras. The individual, identified as Mahesh Arun Ghag alias Vicky, a habitual thief from Chembur, Mumbai, was out on bail just 15 days before the incident.

The police raided his premises and recovered all stolen valuables, including the diamond bracelet, necklace, rings, gold chain, watch, and cash. The entire property was returned to the victim’s family, who expressed immense gratitude to the police.

This case highlights the efficiency of Indian Railways and Maharashtra Police in safeguarding passenger interests. Authorities urge travelers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to railway staff or helpline 139.