Mumbai: Nearly three months after a brutal train robbery attempt left an Ayurvedic doctor grievously injured while saving his wife, the Kurla Government Railway Police (GRP) have arrested the accused from Kozhikode, Kerala. The man, a 40-year-old repeat offender, has over 30 prior cases, mainly chain and bag snatching, registered against him.
Horrific Incident on Moving Train
The crime took place in June when Dr. Yogesh Deshmukh, 50, and his wife, Dr. Deepali Deshmukh, were travelling with their nine-year-old daughter from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus. Around 3:50 a.m., between Bhandup and Kanjurmarg, the accused tried to snatch Dr. Deepali’s bag. When she resisted, he dragged her towards the train door. Dr. Yogesh jumped down to intervene, and in the chaos, both fell onto the tracks. Tragically, Dr. Yogesh’s arm was crushed under the wheels.
Police Investigation and Breakthrough
The GRP launched a manhunt for the unidentified robber soon after the incident. A breakthrough came after a similar robbery was reported at Kozhikode railway station on August 8, where passengers were injured in the same modus operandi. Suspecting it to be the same criminal, the police tracked and arrested him in Kerala. He was later handed over to the Mumbai GRP.
Criminal History and Legal Process
Senior Inspector Sambhaji Yadav confirmed that the accused has at least 33 cases across India. Police have sought a test identification parade before September 26, where the victims and fellow passengers will confirm his identity. However, the handbag stolen from Dr. Deepali has not yet been recovered.
Family’s Ordeal Continues
Dr. Yogesh has undergone multiple surgeries and will need an artificial arm after six months. His wife, Dr. Deepali, sustained bruises but managed to save him from further danger. The incident has left the family deeply traumatised, with uncertainty looming over Dr. Yogesh’s future as a practising doctor.
