A distressing incident of theft aboard a moving train has left an elderly woman and her family in shock. A 78-year-old woman travelling from Mumbai to Udupi was robbed of gold jewellery worth a fortune and a significant amount of cash while she was asleep.
The Unfortunate Journey: From Mumbai to Udupi
The victim, identified as Helmina Salins, a 78-year-old resident of Chembur, Mumbai, was on a family trip to Udupi. She was accompanied by her daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter. Their journey began on December 26 aboard the Matsyagandha Express (Train No. 12619).
The family carried their luggage, which included a vanity bag containing precious gold jewellery, a handbag with clothes, and other suitcases. After boarding the train at 3.10 pm, the elderly complainant placed the vanity bag near her head for safety and eventually fell asleep as the night progressed.
The Shocking Discovery at Dawn
The theft came to light in the early hours of December 27. At around 6.10 am, while the train was passing the Murudeshwar railway station, Helmina Salins's daughter made a startling observation. The vanity bag, which was supposed to be near her mother's head, was no longer there.
Upon a frantic search, the bag was found placed near the train's tea table, a location far from where it was kept. The family's worst fears were confirmed when they checked the contents. The bag had been tampered with, and valuable items were missing.
Massive Loss: Jewellery and Cash Stolen
The loss suffered by the family was substantial. Unidentified persons had stolen:
- Gold jewellery weighing 408 grams, with an estimated market value of Rs 45.8 lakh.
- Cash amounting to Rs 15,000.
The brazen robbery, executed while the victim and her family were asleep, points to the audacity of the thieves operating on long-distance trains.
Police Action and Investigation
Following the traumatic experience, the family approached the authorities. Based on the formal complaint filed by Helmina Salins, the Manipal police station has registered a case. An investigation is now underway to identify and apprehend the culprits behind this high-value theft.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for train passengers, especially on overnight journeys, to remain vigilant with their belongings. It highlights the need for enhanced security measures on railways to protect travellers from such predatory crimes.
