Mumbai: In a major security breakthrough, the Central Railway’s Railway Protection Force (RPF) has arrested the man accused of placing a live snake inside the Vande Bharat Express on December 27, 2025. The accused, Jagan Arjun Bhale, a 37-year-old resident of Nashik district, was apprehended from Mumbra on February 12, 2026, following a meticulous investigation.
Snake Found in Train Toilet Shocked Passengers & Railway Staff
The alarming incident took place on Train No. 22225 Vande Bharat Express, when a snake was discovered inside the toilet of Coach C-16.
Railway authorities immediately sealed the toilet and alerted the Control Room. The snake was safely rescued after the train reached Solapur station.
CCTV footage later revealed a man entering the toilet and placing the reptile inside, prompting the RPF to launch a detailed investigation.
Case Registered Under Railways Act
A case was filed under:
- Section 145(B) – Nuisance
- Section 147 – Trespassing
- Section 153 – Acts endangering the safety of passengers
The RPF subsequently began identifying the suspect using CCTV evidence and technical analysis.
Tip-Off Leads to Arrest in Mumbra
During the multi-week investigation, a reliable tip-off from an informer helped the RPF team zero in on the accused.
A swift operation was carried out, and Jagan Arjun Bhale was taken into custody.
During questioning, Bhale confessed to having intentionally placed the snake in the train’s toilet.
He was produced before the Railway Court in Kalyan, where the court granted 14 days of Magisterial Custody Remand (MCR).
RPF Praised for Quick, Efficient Action
Central Railway has lauded the RPF team for their timely and efficient work in solving the case.
Officials stated that the incident could have endangered passengers, and the swift action demonstrated the RPF’s dedication to safety and security inside one of India’s most prestigious trains.
Investigation Continues
A deeper probe is now underway to determine the motive behind the act and whether others were involved.
