Gold Chain Snatching Incidents Reported Near Erode Junction Railway Station
In a concerning development for railway passenger safety, two separate incidents of gold chain snatching have been reported near Erode Junction railway station in Tamil Nadu. The incidents, which occurred within a short timeframe, involved unidentified persons targeting women passengers on moving trains.
First Incident: Ernakulam-Bilaspur Express
On Wednesday afternoon, a 52-year-old woman from Telangana named Umadevi became the victim of a brazen theft while traveling on the Ernakulam-Bilaspur Express train. According to police reports, an unidentified individual snatched her gold chain weighing four sovereigns as the train was slowing down while approaching Erode Junction railway station.
The perpetrator immediately jumped off the moving train after committing the crime, taking advantage of the reduced speed to make a quick escape. This incident highlights the vulnerability of passengers during transitional phases of train journeys when trains are entering or leaving stations.
Second Incident: Chemmozhi Express
In the early hours of Thursday, another similar incident occurred involving 48-year-old Jaya from Kumbakonam. She was traveling on the Chemmozhi Express from Coimbatore to Mannargudi when her gold chain weighing two sovereigns was snatched by an unidentified person.
Once again, the thief employed the same modus operandi, jumping off the train immediately after snatching the chain. The timing of this second incident, occurring just hours after the first, suggests a pattern of criminal activity targeting specific trains or routes near Erode Junction.
Police Response and Investigation
The Erode railway police have registered two separate cases based on complaints filed by both victims. The total value of the stolen gold chains is estimated to be around Rs 6 lakh, with the combined weight of six sovereigns representing significant financial loss for the affected women.
Police officials have noted that both incidents occurred when the trains were running slowly as they approached Erode Junction, creating an opportunity for criminals to execute their plans and escape. This pattern raises concerns about security measures during these vulnerable moments of train travel.
Broader Implications for Railway Security
These back-to-back incidents have brought attention to passenger safety on Indian railways, particularly for women travelers. The proximity of both crimes to Erode Junction suggests that criminals may be specifically targeting this location or similar railway approaches where trains naturally slow down.
Railway authorities and local police are likely to review security protocols in response to these incidents. Passengers, especially those traveling with valuable jewelry, are being advised to exercise increased caution during station approaches and departures.
The Erode railway police investigation continues as they work to identify the perpetrators and prevent similar incidents in the future. These cases serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring complete security across India's extensive railway network.
