Security agencies in Bihar are on high alert following the discovery of a suspicious internet-enabled surveillance device near Sarai Railway Station on the Hajipur-Muzaffarpur rail section. The device, identified as an IP camera, was located mounted on a signal tower near Level Crossing Gate No. 43-C Special, raising concerns about potential reconnaissance activities. Initial investigations revealed that the camera, powered by solar energy, could be operated remotely via the internet using a 4G SIM card.
Authorities suspect that the strategically placed camera was intended to monitor both railway tracks and the adjacent roadway, areas frequently used for train movement and possible VIP transit. The incident was brought to light when a gatekeeper reported suspicious behavior to the Station Master, Manoj Kumar. A youth, posing as an NGO worker, was seen installing the device before quickly leaving the scene. In response, railway authorities promptly alerted the Railway Protection Force and the Government Railway Police, leading to a comprehensive multi-agency investigation.
Preliminary analysis uncovered stored images associated with Yasin Bhatkal, a known terrorist figure, on the device. Further examination of the IP data has raised concerns about potential links to a Pakistan-backed terror network, allegedly operating from coastal Karnataka. However, officials are treating this as a lead rather than a confirmed conclusion. An FIR has been filed, and the case has been escalated to senior railway and security officials, including Rail DIG Amresh Kumar and Rail SP Beena Kumari.
A joint team comprising the Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force arrived at the location to initiate a thorough investigation. The camera has been confiscated and sent for forensic analysis by GRP units in Muzaffarpur. Early findings suggest that the device was sophisticated, with capabilities to rotate, capture footage in low light, and stream real-time data. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the suspect, described as a young man with a Haryanvi accent.
Security agencies are considering various possible motives behind the installation of the device, including tracking VIP movements, planning sabotage of railway infrastructure, or facilitating a major terror attack. While a definitive conclusion has not been reached yet, the incident has highlighted potential vulnerabilities in railway security, prompting increased surveillance in sensitive zones.
