Four of 17 Undertrials who Escaped From Tamil Nadu Jail Recaptured, 13 Still at Large

Tamil Nadu Police have recaptured four of the 17 undertrial prisoners who escaped from the Thekkampatti sub-jail near Andipatti in Tamil Nadu’s Theni district, while a manhunt is underway to trace the remaining 13.

The escape took place at around 11.20 pm, local time in India, according to police officials cited by Indian Media.

The inmates allegedly staged a medical emergency to trick prison guards into opening their cell before overpowering the staff and fleeing the facility.

One of the prisoners reportedly pretended to suffer an epileptic seizure while sharing a cell with other inmates. When guards unlocked the door to provide medical assistance, the prisoners allegedly attacked them, overpowering the personnel in a brief struggle.

Three prison staff members were injured in the incident. Grade II Police Constable Thangapandi suffered serious head injuries and was taken to the Government Hospital at G Vilakku for treatment. Two other personnel sustained minor injuries.

All 17 inmates managed to escape from the facility following the assault.

Police identified the four recaptured prisoners as Praveen Kumar, Silambarasan, Raja Sikandar and Rajkumar.

Inspector General of Police (South Zone) Vijayendra Bidari has formed 17 special teams to track down the fugitives. 

Vehicle checks have been intensified in neighbouring Dindigul district, while police in Kerala have also been alerted.

Combing operations are underway in forest areas along the Western Ghats and in Idukki district.

Source: Firstpost | The Indian Express