A late night commuter said he was stunned to see a dozen Saturday night revellers jump over barriers at Brighton railway station without paying - and the police did not intervene.
The witness, who declined to be named, said an officer told him it happened regularly.
He was also told that station staff kept their distance because they feared being attacked by the group.
The incident happened at around 11.30pm when the train from Littlehampton arrived at the station.
Fellow passengers looked on in amazement as the group climbed over the barriers.
British Transport Police said about 100 fare evaders were caught at the station each year and two had been apprehended that day, although they had not jumped the barriers.
A spokesman for Southern Railway said: “The actions of these people are both unlawful and can be dangerous to themselves and others.
“This is a rare occurence as there is a round-the-clock presence by British Transport Police at the station.
“If this becomes a problem, we will be seeking assistance from the police with a view to help prevent any future occurences.”
Share