Bhubaneswar: A man accused in a rape case escaped from police custody in Bhubaneswar on Monday, prompting a massive search operation and raising concerns over security protocols during prisoner handling.
According to police sources, the accused was brought from Bhadrak to Bhubaneswar by the Mahila Police for questioning in connection with an alleged rape case. After the interrogation, officers were preparing to produce him before a local court.
Before heading to the court, the accused was taken to a police canteen for breakfast. During that time, he reportedly requested permission to use the washroom. Taking advantage of the situation, he managed to escape from custody.
Following the incident, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Mahila Police Station filed a complaint at the Capital Police Station, and an investigation was immediately launched.
Police have since intensified efforts to trace the absconding accused by setting up checkpoints at key locations across Bhubaneswar and reviewing CCTV footage to determine his escape route.
Authorities said efforts are underway to re-arrest the accused as quickly as possible, while the incident has also sparked questions about the security measures followed during the transportation and supervision of accused persons.
