Bengaluru: Theft at Shivajinagar BMTC bus stand
A major theft was reported at the Shivajinagar BMTC bus stand in Bengaluru on September 25, when a thief stole cash, monthly passes, and a swiping machine from a bus pass counter. According to police, the incident occurred between 6:55 pm and 7:00 pm, shortly after counter staff briefly left the room to check a disturbance on a nearby platform.
How the theft unfolded
The pass counter staff had collected cash through the day and stored it in a box inside the counter. When they stepped out, locking the door behind them, they returned to find the door open and the box missing. CCTV footage later revealed a thief opening the counter door and carrying away the box.
Items stolen in the incident
The stolen property included ₹40,000 in cash, around 397 monthly bus passes, and a swiping machine used for transactions. Each of the missing bus passes carried identifiable serial numbers, such as 035117, 035118, and 035119. Officials said the details of the passes have been recorded, which may help trace their misuse if attempted.
Police investigation and legal action
The Bengaluru police have registered a case under BNS section 305, which pertains to theft in a dwelling house or a place of public use. Investigators are analysing CCTV footage to identify the suspect and track his movements after leaving the bus stand.
Administrative reaction
A senior officer noted that the theft could have been prevented had the counter staff followed stricter security measures. He criticised the decision to leave the counter unattended, pointing out that even locking the door did not ensure proper safety. The BMTC administration has been advised to review its internal procedures, including mandatory staffing and stronger locks for counters handling cash and passes.
Conclusion
The incident highlights gaps in security at busy transit hubs like the Shivajinagar bus stand. While police continue their investigation, commuters have been warned to remain cautious about purchasing bus passes, as stolen ones may surface in circulation despite being traceable.