Rape Accused Escapes Police Custody in Prayagraj Hospital, Two Cops Suspended
In a serious security lapse, a man accused of raping a minor girl managed to escape from police custody at SRN Hospital in Prayagraj on Tuesday night. The incident has led to the immediate suspension of two escorting policemen on charges of dereliction of duty.
Details of the Escape Incident
The accused was arrested by Manikpur police on Sunday and sent to jail the following day. He was brought to SRN Hospital in Prayagraj from Pratapgarh on Tuesday for a DNA test as part of the investigation. However, while under the watch of escorting policemen Madan Sharma and Anuj Kumar, the accused successfully gave them the slip and fled the hospital premises.
Deepak Bhukar, the Superintendent of Police (Pratapgarh), took swift action by suspending both policemen late Tuesday night. The suspension was based on preliminary findings that indicated negligence in their duty to prevent the escape.
Police Response and Investigation
In response to the escape, authorities have launched a comprehensive manhunt. A joint team comprising officers from both Pratapgarh and Prayagraj police has been formed to track down and apprehend the absconding accused.
Police officials stated that three specialized teams have been deployed to intensify the search efforts. Additionally, investigators are meticulously scanning CCTV footage from the hospital and surrounding areas to gather clues about the accused's movements and possible whereabouts.
The escape has raised concerns about security protocols during prisoner transfers and medical procedures. The police are reviewing procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance during such operations.
