Train Targeted in Brazen Early Morning Attack
In a disturbing incident that has raised security concerns, the Seemanchal Express (train number 12488) came under attack in the early hours of Sunday in Bihar's Bhojpur district. Around a dozen unknown miscreants targeted the train between the Jamira halt and Chaliswa bridge, resorting to stone pelting and firing multiple gunshots.
Sequence of Events: From Chain Pulling to Gunfire
The attack unfolded with a calculated move. According to the First Information Report (FIR) lodged at the Ara Mufassil police station, the assailants first pulled the train's emergency chain, forcing it to an unscheduled stop in a relatively isolated location. When the accompanying Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, including jawan Sanjeev Kumar, got down to investigate, the attackers launched their assault.
They began pelting stones at the train and allegedly fired three to four rounds towards the RPF team. Showing prompt response, the security personnel confronted and chased the attackers, who subsequently fled the scene. The quick action by the RPF escort party is credited with preventing any injuries to passengers or staff.
However, the stone pelting did cause material damage, shattering the windowpane of a general compartment. The train, which was on its journey from Anand Vihar Terminal to Jogbani, later resumed its route after the incident.
Police Investigation Points to Liquor Smuggling Angle
Deepak Kumar, the Station House Officer of Ara Mufassil police station, stated that an FIR against 10-12 unknown persons has been registered. He noted the puzzling aspect of the location, stating, "The chain pulling was done at a place from where the nearest village is about two km away. It makes the motive of the miscreants a bit baffling."
However, investigators have zeroed in on a probable motive. A senior police officer explained that illicit liquor smugglers are the prime suspects. The theory stems from the train's schedule. "The Seemanchal Express has no stoppage between Dildarnagar station in Uttar Pradesh, where there is no prohibition, and Danapur in Bihar," the officer said.
The police suspect the smugglers might have planned to alight in Bhojpur by pulling the chain to avoid anticipated checks by the railway police at Danapur. During the subsequent search of the area, investigators recovered three empty cartridges from the spot, which are being examined for forensic evidence.
Ongoing Manhunt and Security Implications
The police have confirmed that they have identified some suspects based on preliminary inquiries and are confident of making arrests soon. "They will be apprehended and interrogated," assured SHO Deepak Kumar. The incident has highlighted the challenges of securing railway tracks in remote sections and the audacity of criminal elements targeting moving trains.
The attack on a major express train like the Seemanchal Express has prompted local authorities to review security protocols along vulnerable stretches of the railway network in the region. The investigation remains active as police teams work to track down the individuals involved in this brazen act of violence and vandalism.
