The Bandra GRP Crime Branch has exposed an inter-state fraud gang that deceived passengers at railway stations and bus stands. The gang’s modus operandi involved convincing passengers that a special government-approved railway and bus card was mandatory for those travelling with dollars from abroad. They charged R10,000 per card, claiming it was necessary for travel. On the pretext of making travel cards and currency cards, the accused also obtained people’s mobile phones, dollars, and debit cards, then absconded and later used the cards to clear out their bank accounts.

One of the gang’s victims, Deepak Thakur, a merchant navy worker, was targeted at Mumbai Central station last month. Thakur arrived from Egypt at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and went to Mumbai Central station to board the Golden Temple Train. He was allegedly duped of 2,500 dollars by the accused. Following his complaint, GRP officials launched an investigation under the guidance of their senior officers.