Bengaluru: What began as a failed robbery attempt at a high-security railway yard in Bengaluru eventually led to the arrest of two young men who unknowingly made off with critical train components after mistaking them for scrap.On Thursday, Railway Protection Force (RPF) from Bengaluru Division apprehended Santhosh A (21) and Sandeep (21) from Okalipuram, nearly a month after they allegedly stole vital shock absorbers used in trains. According to RPF officers, the duo first visited the KSR Bengaluru yard with plans to commit theft, but were forced to retreat due to tight security. Undeterred, they returned about a week later, on April 11. This time, they stumbled upon what they believed were ordinary metal rods. These were actually crucial railway components: secondary lateral dampers and yaw dampers which are used to stabilise train coaches and ensure smoother rides. Unaware of their technical significance or value, the two allegedly stole the parts, likely intending to sell them as scrap. After the theft, the pair hired an autorickshaw to return home, reportedly under the influence of alcohol. Using the vehicle’s registration number, RPF personnel tracked down and intercepted the driver. Though he cooperated and shared the drop-off location, the suspects initially managed to evade capture. “The auto driver had no knowledge of the stolen goods. However, as per procedure, he was named in the case,” an RPF officer said. An FIR was subsequently registered at the KSR Bengaluru RPF post under Section 3(a) of the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1966. Following weeks of investigation and multiple search attempts, RPF finally traced and arrested the accused on Thursday. The duo later led officials to both the crime scene and the location where the stolen dampers had been hidden. “It appears they intended to sell the items as scrap and were unaware of their actual importance,” said senior divisional security commissioner Shreyans Chinchawade. MSID:: 130716030 413 |
