Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, March 10: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Southern Railway’s Palakkad Division seized 201 used mobile phones valued at approximately Rs 10.05 lac from Train No. 19578 Jamnagar–Tirunelveli Junction Express during a special surveillance drive at Mangaluru Junction Railway Station, officials said.

The operation is part of intensified monitoring ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections 2026, aimed at preventing the illegal transportation of cash, gold, electronic items, and other valuables through trains.

The seizure took place in the early hours of Monday at Platform No. 3, when RPF personnel inspecting a general coach noticed three unattended bags placed on the upper luggage rack.

On suspicion, the bags were examined and found to contain 201 used mobile phones of various brands, estimated to be worth around Rs 10.05 lac.

The checking operation was carried out by RPF head constable Sujeesh and constable Ramakrishna. As no claimant was present at the spot, the phones were seized under a seizure mahazar in the presence of two independent witnesses, following due legal procedures.

Subsequent examination of body-worn camera footage reportedly revealed the presence of two suspected individuals in the coach around the time the bags were detected.

Investigators believe the suspects may have abandoned the bags during the inspection. Efforts are under way in coordination with the Crime Intelligence Branch and the Divisional Crime Prevention and Detection Squad to identify and trace the individuals involved.

The matter has also been shared with the Government Railway Police for further investigation and appropriate legal action regarding the seized items.

Railway officials emphasised that special surveillance and enforcement drives will continue across railway stations and trains to safeguard the railway network during the election period and prevent illegal transportation of valuables.