In a major security lapse, a 27-year-old accused managed to escape from police custody through a hospital window in Kerala's capital city, exposing serious gaps in law enforcement protocols. The dramatic escape occurred at the Government Medical College Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, sending shockwaves through the police department.
The Dramatic Escape Incident
Arun Kumar, the 27-year-old accused, was brought to the Government Medical College Hospital for a mandatory medical checkup around 4:30 PM on Tuesday. The accused, who faces multiple criminal charges, was supposed to undergo routine medical examination before being produced in court. According to police sources, Kumar was escorted by two police personnel who were responsible for his security during the hospital visit.
The escape took place when the accused asked to use the restroom facilities within the hospital. While being escorted to the bathroom, Kumar suddenly pushed away the accompanying police officers and made a dash for an open window. Before the shocked officers could react, the accused jumped through the window and disappeared into the crowded streets surrounding the medical facility.
Police Response and Investigation
Immediately following the escape, Kerala Police launched a massive manhunt to recapture the fugitive. Multiple police teams have been deployed across Thiruvananthapuram and neighboring districts to track down the escaped accused. Checkpoints have been established at major exit points from the city, and vehicle searches are being conducted intensively.
Police authorities have confirmed that an internal investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the security breach. The two police officers who were escorting the accused at the time of the escape have been suspended pending inquiry. Preliminary reports suggest that the officers might have violated standard operating procedures regarding the handling of accused persons during hospital visits.
Security Lapses and Preventive Measures
The incident has raised serious questions about security protocols followed by police when transporting accused individuals to medical facilities. Security experts point out that hospitals present unique challenges for law enforcement due to their open nature and constant public movement.
Kerala Police has announced that new security guidelines will be implemented immediately for all hospital visits involving accused persons. These include mandatory use of handcuffs in high-risk cases, increased number of escort personnel, and prior security sweeps of hospital areas before bringing accused individuals for medical examinations.
The police department has also decided to conduct security audits of all major government hospitals in the state to identify potential escape routes and vulnerabilities. Additional training will be provided to police personnel handling custody cases, focusing specifically on situational awareness and emergency response protocols.
Local residents have expressed concern over the security lapse, particularly since the escaped accused has a history of criminal activities. Police officials have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to apprehend the fugitive and prevent similar incidents in the future.
