Electric Cables worth Rs.10 million chipped away from train parked at Hikkaduwa

• According to railway security officials, the thieves specifically targeted cables used for powering the lighting system within the passenger compartments

By D.G.Sugathapala  

In a daring robbery which has stunned authorities, thieves managed to steal electric cables worth over Rs.10 million from a train named ‘Nayana Kumari’ stationed at Hikkaduwa railway station, a top official said.   
Deputy Superintendent- Railway Protection Force G.W. Sumith said the incident had occurred in the early hours of Thursday, targeting the Nayana Kumari express train which had arrived the previous night from Colombo.  

According to railway security officials, the thieves specifically targeted cables used for powering the lighting system within the passenger compartments. Their method of operation suggests a sophisticated understanding of electric circuits, as only individuals familiar with such technology would be able to dismantle the cables.  

In response to the incident, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Crime Investigation Division in Galle police, CI A.S.L. Narangoda, has initiated a thorough investigation. Authorities are working diligently to gather evidence and pursue leads that could lead to the apprehension of the perpetrators.  

Meanwhile, railway authorities are urged to enhance security measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. 

The brazen nature of this theft serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure against criminal activities.