Massive Gold Heist in Patna: Criminals Impersonate Customs Officers
In a brazen daylight robbery, criminals disguised as customs officers looted approximately 17 kilograms of gold jewellery, valued at over Rs 25 crore, from two employees of a Gujarat-based jeweller near Danapur railway station in Patna on Saturday. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, occurred under the jurisdiction of the Khagaul police station.
Details of the Deceptive Robbery
The victims, identified as Mahesh Mamtora and Prince Ramparia, residents of Rajkot, had arrived in Danapur from Ahmedabad via the Saharsa Express. They were transporting the gold jewellery on behalf of their employer, Sunil Bhai, who owns a jewellery store in Rajkot. As the duo travelled in an auto-rickshaw towards Bakerganj, their vehicle was intercepted near the Khagaul overbridge by a group of five to seven miscreants.
These criminals were travelling in a car adorned with a police sticker and accompanied by two motorcycles. Dressed in white shirts and khaki pants to mimic official attire, they confidently presented themselves as customs officers. After conducting a brief inspection, they seized three bags containing the gold jewellery. The gang's professional demeanor initially convinced the victims of their legitimacy, according to Prince's statement to the police.
Abduction and Release of Victim
In a further escalation, the criminals forced Mahesh into their vehicle. He was subsequently blindfolded, tied up, and abandoned at a deserted stretch on Naubatpur Road before being released. Both victims were left stranded as the miscreants fled the scene, leaving behind no immediate trace.
Police Investigation and Evidence
Khagaul police have swiftly responded by seizing the vehicle used in the crime, which bore a fake registration number. Authorities are currently tracing the vehicle's owner through its chassis number. CCTV footage from Danapur railway station has revealed that the suspects were tailing the victims from the moment of their arrival, indicating a premeditated plan.
Senior police officers and the Special Task Force (STF) are actively assisting in the investigation to apprehend the culprits. Sub-Divisional Police Officer-I (SDPO) of Danapur, Shivam Dhakad, confirmed that a fraud case has been registered under the Khagaul police station.
Official Statements and Ongoing Efforts
SDPO Dhakad stated, "Two persons arriving from Rajkot by train with gold were deceived and robbed by unknown criminals posing as customs officers." He added that the police have contacted the owner of the gold, Sunil Bhai, who arrived in Patna on Sunday to lodge a formal complaint. A detailed verification of the stolen items will be carried out based on this complaint.
"The investigation is progressing in all directions using both manual and technical intelligence. At least five to six persons were involved, and they are visible in the CCTV footage," Dhakad emphasized, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the probe.
This incident highlights growing concerns over sophisticated criminal activities in the region, with authorities urging vigilance among travellers and businesses handling high-value goods.
