In a major security lapse, an accused in a narcotics case managed to escape from police custody in Punjab's Moga district. The incident occurred under the watch of the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff, sending shockwaves through the local law enforcement apparatus.
Dramatic Escape Through the Roof
The fugitive, identified as Gurpreet Singh, alias Gopi, son of Kashmir Singh from Baghapurana, was being held in connection with a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. According to police reports, the escape took place in the early hours of the morning. Gurpreet Singh executed his getaway by breaking through the roof of the temporary lock-up where he was detained.
He was originally apprehended by a police team from the Sadar police station in Moga. Following his arrest, he was handed over to the CIA staff for further interrogation and custody. The temporary lock-up, located within the CIA premises, became the site of the daring escape.
Immediate Aftermath and Police Response
Following the discovery of the escape, senior police officials swiftly initiated action. Two police personnel have been suspended with immediate effect for alleged negligence in duty. The suspended officials are Head Constable Raj Kumar and Constable Lovepreet Singh.
A comprehensive search operation, or manhunt, has been launched across the district and adjoining areas to recapture the escaped accused. Police teams are conducting raids at possible hideouts and are scrutinizing his known contacts. The local police have also alerted neighboring districts to tighten checkpoints and maintain vigilance.
Accountability and Ongoing Investigation
The escape raises serious questions about the security protocols in place for temporary police lock-ups. An internal investigation has been ordered to determine the exact sequence of events and the extent of the security failure. Authorities are examining how the accused managed to break through the roof without detection.
This incident highlights a significant breach in police custody procedures. The NDPS Act deals with serious offenses related to drug trafficking, making the escape of an accused a matter of grave concern for the police force. The department faces mounting pressure to apprehend Gurpreet Singh swiftly and to review its custodial security measures to prevent such lapses in the future.
The police have urged the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the arrest of the escaped accused. The case continues to develop as the manhunt intensifies.
