Bhubaneswar, May 27: Two women allegedly belonging to the notorious Banjara gang were arrested by the RPF Crime Branch in connection with a jewellery theft worth around Rs 15 lakh at Bhubaneswar Railway Station.

The incident took place on Monday morning at Platform No. 1 while a couple from Bhadrak was boarding the Lokmanya Tilak Express for Mumbai. The couple, who work in Mumbai, were returning after attending a wedding in Bhadrak.

According to reports, the accused took advantage of the heavy rush during boarding and allegedly stole a jewellery bag from a vanity bag carried by the family. The stolen bag reportedly contained a gold necklace, three gold chains, a pair of earrings, three gold rings and gold biscuits, collectively valued at nearly Rs 15 lakh.

Following the complaint, the RPF Crime Branch launched an investigation and apprehended the two women involved in the theft. The stolen gold ornaments were also recovered from their possession.

Officials said one of the accused is a habitual offender and several criminal cases are pending against her.

The incident has raised concerns over passenger safety during crowded train journeys, with railway authorities advising passengers to remain vigilant against such theft gangs operating at railway stations and inside trains.