In a major security lapse, an accused person managed to escape from the custody of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Mohali, triggering a high-alert search operation by the police. The incident has led to the registration of a fresh case under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Details of the Escape Incident
The escape occurred from the custody cell of the NCB's Chandigarh zonal unit, which is located in Sector 66, Mohali, within the jurisdiction of the Phase-11 police station. The accused has been identified as Mridul Agarwal, aged 49. He is a resident of Shimla Enclave West, Sevla Kala-Majra, in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Agarwal was under interrogation by the NCB in connection with a case registered under sections 8, 22, and 29 of the NDPS Act at the bureau's Amritsar unit. The formal complaint regarding his escape was filed by Sub-Inspector Hemant Chaudhary of the NCB Chandigarh unit.
Police Response and Legal Action
Treating the escape as a serious breach, the Phase-11 police swiftly registered a First Information Report (FIR). The case has been filed under Section 262 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which specifically deals with the offence of escape from lawful custody.
Following the registration of the FIR, the Mohali police control room was immediately alerted. Copies of the report were forwarded to the concerned magistrate and senior police officers for necessary action. The matter has also been escalated to higher authorities within the police department.
Intensified Search Operation Underway
Police teams have launched an intensive search operation to recapture the fugitive. Raids are being conducted at suspected hideouts, and Agarwal's possible movements are being tracked.
Officials stated that all possible angles related to the escape are being thoroughly examined. "Further action will follow once the accused is traced," they affirmed, indicating that the investigation into how the escape was possible is also ongoing.
The incident raises significant questions about security protocols at NCB holding facilities and highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in handling custody of accused individuals.
