Man held for stealing cars near Katpadi railway station

A string of vehicle thefts had been reported in the vicinity of Katpadi railway station over the past few weeks, prompting local law enforcement to form a dedicated task force. The stolen cars, ranging from compact sedans to larger SUVs, were often abandoned a short distance from the station, suggesting a coordinated effort by a small group. Residents expressed growing anxiety as the pattern continued, and shop owners near the station reported seeing suspicious activity during night hours.

Special teams from the police department reviewed hours of CCTV footage from cameras installed at the station and surrounding streets. The recordings captured a distinctive vehicle with a partially obscured license plate being driven by a man matching the description of Stephen Raj, a known local offender. Using this visual evidence, investigators traced the suspect to a rented house in Vellore, where they found several stolen vehicles hidden in the garage. The operation was carried out in the early morning to minimize risk to civilians, and the suspect was taken into custody without resistance.

The successful arrest highlights the growing reliance on technology and coordinated police work to combat property crime in the region. Authorities have warned that they will continue to monitor high‑risk areas and encourage the public to report suspicious behavior promptly. For residents of Vellore and surrounding districts, the case serves as a reminder that vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement can help deter criminal activity and protect personal property.