RPF Intensifies Crackdown on Bootleggers at Bhagalpur Railway Station
In a significant operation aimed at curbing illegal activities, a Railway Protection Force (RPF) team from the Malda railway division of Eastern Railway arrested two bootleggers and confiscated illicit liquor bottles at Bhagalpur railway station on Monday. The arrested individuals, who were traveling on the Dumka–Bhagalpur Express, were allegedly en route to deliver the contraband to middlemen at the station.
Joint Raid Under Supervision of Malda DRM
The operation was conducted as a joint raid under the direct supervision of Malda Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Manish Kumar Gupta, along with other senior officials. Speaking to the media, DRM Gupta emphasized that railway officials and the RPF have ramped up surveillance and regular checking drives across the Malda division to combat crime and enhance passenger safety.
"Our teams are committed to preventing criminal activities and ensuring a secure travel environment for all passengers," Gupta stated. "We have intensified our efforts, and these joint raids will continue across railway sections under the Malda division to stop illegal operations."
Multiple Operations Lead to Arrests Across Three States
Since Saturday, multiple operations at Bhagalpur railway station have resulted in the arrest of several bootleggers who were operating through trains running across three states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bihar, all under the jurisdiction of the Malda division. Acting on a specific tip-off regarding alcohol smuggling, a coordinated team of RPF and railway officials apprehended two persons from a train and another individual from platform number 4 at Bhagalpur station.
In addition to the illicit liquor, cash and a stolen cellphone valued at approximately Rs 15,000 were recovered from the third arrested person. Legal proceedings have been initiated against all the detained bootleggers, underscoring the authorities' zero-tolerance policy towards such offenses.
Enhanced Surveillance and Ticket-Checking Drives
The DRM further highlighted that the railway administration and RPF are not only focusing on bootlegging but have also intensified ticket-checking drives to curb ticketless travel. This multi-pronged approach aims to address various forms of misconduct and ensure overall railway security.
"We are dedicated to maintaining law and order on our railways," Gupta added. "Our ongoing efforts include regular patrols, surprise checks, and collaboration with local law enforcement to deter criminal elements."
The recent crackdown at Bhagalpur station is part of a broader initiative by Eastern Railway to safeguard passengers and uphold the integrity of railway operations. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities, reinforcing their commitment to creating a safe and secure travel experience for everyone.
