Intelligence-Based Raid Uncovers Bags of Protected Species on Train
Key Points:
- RPF recovered live turtles from Farakka Express during a raid
- Three suspects were arrested for alleged wildlife trafficking
- Operation followed specific intelligence inputs
JAMSHEDPUR – Railway Protection Force personnel seized a large number of live turtles from a passenger train and arrested three suspected traffickers following an intelligence-led operation.
The Railway Protection Force carried out a raid on the 15734 Down Farakka Express based on secret information. Officials said Inspector Sanjeev Kumar received inputs indicating illegal transportation of protected turtles along the Sahibganj–Barharwa railway section, prompting heightened alert and surveillance on moving trains.
As the train departed Sahibganj, the activities of three passengers appeared suspicious to RPF personnel on patrol. Meanwhile, officers maintained discreet monitoring, and when the train approached Taljhari station, a detailed inspection drive was conducted inside the coaches.
During the search, RPF personnel recovered 22 bags from the suspects, all containing live turtles. The turtles ranged from small to large sizes, indicating a well-planned trafficking operation rather than isolated transport.
All seized bags were taken down at Barharwa railway station, where formal legal procedures were initiated. However, officials said the exact number of turtles could not be immediately counted due to the scale of the recovery.
The arrested individuals were identified as Karan Patrakat, Kusma Patrakat and Manju Patrakat, all residents of Sultanpur district in Uttar Pradesh. During preliminary questioning, the accused stated they had purchased the turtles from Banaras and were transporting them to Farakka for sale at higher prices.
Police have registered a case under relevant legal provisions and are initiating steps to send the accused to judicial custody. Moreover, all rescued turtles will be handed over to the forest department to ensure their protection and conservation.
Similar enforcement actions have earlier been reported in cases involving RPF raids on trains. Railway authorities have also cracked down on ticket rackets operating through rail routes.
Previous interceptions include seizures involving contraband transport on long-distance trains. Wildlife-related cases were earlier highlighted in an exotic animals case.
Rescue operations against trafficking networks have also included human trafficking cases, reflecting continued vigilance by railway security agencies.
