The theft of gold worth ₹5 crore (approximately $1.5 billion) from an AC coach of the Siddheshwar Express, traveling from Solapur to Mumbai in Maharashtra, has raised serious questions about railway security. Abhaykumar Jain, a Mumbai resident, was traveling with his daughter on the train. He had two trolley bags, including a blue-and-black American Tourister bag containing approximately 5 kilograms of gold jewelry.
Event details
The theft occurred between Solapur and Kalyan on the intervening night of December 6th and 7th. Jain had locked the bag under his berth. When the train arrived at Kalyan on the morning of December 7th, he noticed the bag was missing. He immediately informed the Railway Protection Force (TTE) and the Rail Madad Seva (Railway Help Service). Upon learning of the incident, the GRP registered a case and began an investigation.
Police engaged in investigation
- CCTV footage of the coach, platform and station is being scanned.
- Passengers are being questioned and stopped at intermediate stations for checking.
- Police suspect that this theft is part of a planned and professional crime and not the act of an ordinary passenger.
List of stolen jewellery
- Gold chain-pendant – 60 grams
- Mangalsutra pendant – 260 grams
- Earrings/Tops – 800 grams
- Gold bowls – 300 grams
- Ear chain – 125 grams
- Rings – 800 grams
- ‘Yali’ Design Jewellery – 350 grams
- Necklace – 900 grams
- Gold necklace – 140 grams
- Mangalsutra with black beads – 300 grams
- Other earrings, earrings, stone set – 226 grams
- Nosepin (Moron) – 125 grams
Apart from this, trolley bag and ECHOLAC briefcase were also stolen.
Questions raised on railway safety
Such a significant theft from a locked bag in an AC coach raises questions not only about the police but also about railway security. The incident appears to have been carried out in a professional manner. The GRP is investigating the matter seriously and the suspects are expected to be identified soon.