Mumbai has seen a major breakthrough as the Kurla railway police capture serial snatcher involved in several thefts across the city. The accused, Mohammad Saif, also known as Asgar Ali Chowdhury, is 37 years old and originally from Delhi. He had been hiding from the police for over three months, but his arrest brings relief to many passengers, especially after a serious incident in June that left a doctor badly injured.
On June 4, Dr. Yogesh Deshmukh, 50, was traveling with his wife, Dr. Deepali, and their son on the Nanded Express from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus. During the journey, Chowdhury allegedly grabbed Dr. Deepali’s handbag. She lost balance, and while Dr. Yogesh tried to save her, both of them tragically fell from the moving train.
Dr. Yogesh suffered life-changing injuries in the fall. His left hand was severed at the elbow after hitting the tracks. The trauma has forced him to close his clinic, leaving him emotionally shaken. Doctors are exploring options for a hand transplant, but the recovery process will take time. The Deshmukh family continues to hope for support and healing during this difficult period.
Chowdhury’s criminal record is extensive. Police confirmed he is linked to at least 33 cases of snatching across Kurla, Panvel, and Thane railway stations. He has a pattern of traveling to Mumbai during the rainy season, where he carries out his crimes. After the June incident, he continued stealing and was caught again in July in Kozhikode, Kerala. Kerala police arrested him there for a similar case and later handed him over to the Kurla GRP on September 18.
Although Chowdhury has a wife and four children in Delhi, he refused to take up steady work. Earlier, he sold mobile headphones on trains as a hawker, but he later turned to crime, snatching bags and jewelry for quick money. Police said CCTV footage from stations and trains played a crucial role in linking him to multiple thefts.
The incident involving the Deshmukh family has shocked regular commuters. Mumbai’s local trains are lifelines for millions, and crimes like these highlight the urgent need for better security. Police officers are working harder to patrol trains and protect passengers, but vigilance from citizens is equally important. Authorities urge people to report suspicious activity immediately.
This case also reflects larger social issues. Many criminals cite unemployment and financial struggles as reasons for choosing theft over honest work. Experts stress that communities must create stronger programs, provide more job opportunities, and run awareness campaigns to reduce such crimes in the long run.
The Kurla GRP’s efforts demonstrate their commitment to passenger safety. By capturing Chowdhury, they have not only solved a series of theft cases but also reassured commuters that law enforcement is alert and active. Their action also sends a strong message to repeat offenders that they cannot escape justice.
For Dr. Yogesh and his family, the road to recovery is long, but they remain hopeful. Community support has given them strength, and doctors continue working on treatment possibilities. The incident reminds everyone about the importance of empathy, vigilance, and safety in crowded public spaces.
In conclusion, the case of the Kurla railway police capture serial snatcher shows both the risks commuters face and the determination of the police to secure Mumbai’s trains. With stronger awareness, public cooperation, and active law enforcement, the city can move closer to safer journeys for everyone.
