India
Gang Tampered with Signals, Stole ₹2 Lakh in Gold from Women Passengers on Maharashtra Train

A group of eight to ten men allegedly tampered with the railway signalling system to stop the Mumbai‑Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Express in Satara district, Maharashtra, on Sunday. The incident took place near Salpa railway station at about 2.30 a.m., according to an investigation by Miraj Railway Police Station. After the train was halted, the gang entered coach S‑2, stole gold ornaments from three women passengers and fled. They also reportedly threw stones at coaches S‑2, S‑3 and S‑4, apparently to deter pursuit and create panic on board. Police inspector Sitaram Phand said the accused appear to have targeted women passengers after tampering with the signal system and that several teams are conducting a search operation to trace them. Investigators believe the gang split into groups, with some members positioned near the signal system while others boarded the train to carry out the robbery. The exact sequence of events and the involvement of each suspect are still being ascertained. The train had three Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel on board for passenger safety, yet the gang managed to stop the train, enter a coach and rob passengers before escaping. A case has been registered at the Miraj Railway Police Station and further investigation is underway.
Frequently asked questions
How many men were involved in the robbery?
A group of eight to ten men.
What did the gang steal?
Gold ornaments from three women passengers.
What actions did the police take after the incident?
A case was registered at the Miraj Railway Police Station and search operations are underway.