Maharashtra Crime: RPF, GRP Crack ₹35.45 Lakh Theft On Indore–Daund Express Within 48 Hours; Habitual Offender Held, Stolen Valuables Recovered (VIDEO)
Mumbai: In a remarkable display of coordination and prompt action, a joint team of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Central Railway, Government Railway Police (GRP), and the Local Crime Branch (LCB) successfully cracked a high-profile theft case within just 48 hours.
“The stolen property, worth Rs 35.45 lakh-- consisting of diamond and gold ornaments along with cash-- was recovered and returned to the victim. The accused, identified as Mahesh Arun Ghag alias Vicky, a resident of Chembur, is a habitual offender who was recently released on bail,” said an official of Central Railway.
The incident occurred aboard the Indore–Daund Express on the morning of June 20, 2025. A 73- year- old Kanta Devi and her husband Suresh Chandra from Indore, were travelling to attend a religious function in Lonavala, discovered that her handbag—containing a diamond bracelet, diamond necklace, rings, a gold watch, a gold chain, and Rs 50,000 in cash—was missing when she woke up around 7:30 am as the train approached Lonavala.
Although the elderly woman had kept her handbag securely tucked under her arm while sleeping, the accused managed to steal it. Shocked and distressed upon discovering the theft, she immediately contacted the Indian Railways helpline at 139. A formal FIR was later registered with the Government Railway Police (GRP) in Lonavala, the official added.
According to a CR spokesperson, acting swiftly, multiple teams were formed by the GRP, RPF, and Railway authorities. CCTV footage from all stations along the train’s route—including major stops like Indore, Ujjain, Ratlam, Vadodara, Surat, Vasai Road, Kalyan, and Lonavala—was thoroughly examined. The breakthrough came when one individual was seen deboarding at Kalyan Junction and suspiciously lingering within the station premises.
“Further tracking revealed that the man, identified as Mahesh Arun Ghag alias Vicky, a resident of Chembur, Mumbai, was a habitual offender recently released on bail. Surveillance confirmed his attempts to avoid cameras and law enforcement. A raid was conducted at his hideout, leading to the recovery of the entire stolen property,” he said.
Officials confirmed that all valuables were returned to the victim’s family. “This swift resolution highlights Indian Railways’ and Maharashtra Police’s unwavering commitment to passenger safety and timely action,” the CR spokesperson added.
He also urged passengers to remain vigilant while travelling and to report any suspicious activity to onboard staff or through the railway helpline 139.
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