In a significant crackdown on black marketing at Malda railway station, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has arrested notorious ticket touts, recovering a staggering 59 mobile phones from their possession. This bold operation underscores the RPF’s unwavering commitment to curbing illegal ticket sales that plague Indian railways daily.
The raid, meticulously planned over several weeks, targeted a syndicate known for exploiting desperate passengers during peak travel seasons. Acting on credible intelligence about rampant scalping activities, RPF teams swooped down on the station premises late last night. The suspects, caught red-handed with stacks of counterfeit tickets and digital devices used for fraudulent bookings, offered little resistance.
Among the seized items were dozens of smartphones loaded with multiple IRCTC accounts, proxy servers, and apps designed to bypass booking limits. These gadgets formed the backbone of their operation, enabling the gang to book hundreds of tickets in minutes and resell them at exorbitant prices—often double or triple the original fare.
Senior RPF officials revealed that the arrested individuals have prior records of similar offenses, indicating a well-organized network spanning multiple states. ‘This is just the tip of the iceberg,’ stated the lead investigator. ‘We are interrogating the suspects to dismantle the entire racket and prevent future disruptions to genuine passengers.’
The operation has brought much-needed relief to commuters who frequently face harassment from touts. With festivals and holidays approaching, such actions are crucial to ensuring fair access to tickets. Authorities have assured the public of intensified vigilance and advanced surveillance measures at major stations.
Railway Minister has commended the RPF’s efforts, urging citizens to report suspicious activities via helplines. This bust not only recovers valuable assets but also sends a strong deterrent message to other criminal elements lurking in the shadows of rail travel.