Visakhapatnam Railway Station has marked a major milestone in passenger security with the successful real-time identification and apprehension of two habitual offenders using the AI-powered Facial Recognition System (FRS) of Rail Robocop “ASC Arjun.” The incident took place on February 2, 2026, at around 8:10 pm, when the AI-enabled robotic system, deployed for routine surveillance and patrolling, detected a suspect at the station entry point. The system matched the individual’s facial image with a pre-loaded database of known criminals and immediately generated an alert to the RPF CCTV Control Room, Visakhapatnam.
Swift AI Alert Triggers Arrest
On receiving the alert, Head Constable B.S. Narayana, who was monitoring the CCTV feed, verified the live visuals and promptly informed Sub-Inspector V. Keerthi Reddy and the Crime Prevention Detention Squad (CPDS) of the Waltair Division. Acting swiftly, the team conducted a coordinated operation and apprehended Hadapa Shiva (39) and his associate G. Bhangaru. During verification, both individuals failed to produce valid journey tickets and were brought to the RPF Post, Visakhapatnam for further action.
Duo Linked To Serious Crimes
Background checks revealed that the duo are hardcore habitual offenders with multiple criminal cases registered at Rayagada Police Station, involving serious offences such as theft, robbery, dacoity, assault, and arms-related crimes. The apprehension was immediately reported to the Government Railway Police (GRP), Visakhapatnam, and a joint interrogation was conducted by RPF and GRP teams. Investigations confirmed that the suspects had entered the station without valid authority and were intercepted at the entry stage itself by the AI-based Facial Recognition System of Rail Robocop ASC Arjun.
Ticket Violation Action, AI Success
As both offenders were found travelling without tickets, action was taken against them under the provisions of the Indian Railways Act, 1989 (Amended 2003). The matter was also intimated to Rayagada Police for further necessary legal proceedings. Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Railway Manager Shri Lalit Bohra described the incident as a significant achievement, stating that the successful real-time identification and detention of habitual offenders in a crowded public place highlights the effectiveness of AI-powered surveillance technology. He added that such initiatives play a crucial role in proactively preventing crime and ensuring safer travel for railway passengers.
