Jatni (Odisha): In a significant intervention, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) rescued 25 minor boys from Khurda Road Railway Station on Friday, raising suspicions of possible child trafficking.

RPF intercepts group travelling from West Bengal and Bihar to Bengaluru

The minors, reportedly belonging to the Muslim community and hailing from various districts of West Bengal and Bihar, were travelling to Bengaluru to pursue studies at a madrasa. They were intercepted during a routine inspection on Platform No. 2, where the Vasco da Gama–Amaravati Superfast Express (often referred to as the Amaravati Express) had halted.

Escort detained for questioning over lack of parental consent documents

RPF personnel questioned the group and brought them to their office for further verification. During interrogation, it was revealed that the children were accompanied by a single individual. However, the escort failed to produce any authorization or consent letters from the minors’ parents or guardians.

The absence of valid documentation immediately raised concerns among officials, prompting suspicion of potential trafficking. The accompanying individual has been detained and is currently being interrogated.

Children handed over to Child Welfare Committee; anti-trafficking unit launches probe

Following the development, the anti-human trafficking unit initiated a detailed investigation into the matter. Officials indicated that further clarity will emerge after a thorough verification process.

Meanwhile, the rescued minors have been handed over to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for care and further procedures as per legal protocols.

Alert from Ticket Examiner triggered action

According to sources, the operation was set in motion after a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) onboard the train alerted authorities at Khurda Road about suspected child movement from Cuttack railway station. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the RPF team conducted checks and intercepted the group.

Officials from RPF and Government Railway Police (GRP) stated that a clearer picture of the situation is expected after the completion of the ongoing inquiry.