RPF Rescues 25 Minor Boys at Khurda Road Station, Trafficking Angle Suspected

Jatni: In a major intervention, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) rescued 25 minor boys from Khurda Road Railway Station in Odisha on Friday, triggering suspicion of a possible child trafficking case.

The minors, hailing from different districts of West Bengal and Bihar, were reportedly on their way to Bengaluru to study at a madrasa. They were intercepted during a routine inspection on Platform No. 2 when the Vasco da Gama–Amaravati Superfast Express halted at the station.

During questioning, officials found that the group was being accompanied by a single individual. However, the person failed to produce any consent or authorization documents from the children’s parents or guardians, raising immediate concern among the RPF personnel. The escort has since been detained for further interrogation.

Following the rescue, the anti-human trafficking unit launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the circumstances under which the minors were travelling. Authorities said more clarity is expected after thorough verification.

The rescued children have been handed over to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for care and further legal procedures.

Sources revealed that the operation was initiated after a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) alerted officials about suspicious movement of minors from Cuttack railway station. Acting on the tip-off, the RPF team swiftly carried out checks and intercepted the group at Khurda Road.

Officials from both the RPF and Government Railway Police (GRP) said the investigation is ongoing and further details will emerge once inquiries are completed.