A major security breach at a sub-jail in Tamil Nadu’s Theni district has triggered an extensive manhunt after 17 undertrial prisoners escaped on the night of October 26. The inmates allegedly tricked prison staff by pretending that someone was suffering from a medical emergency before attacking the personnel and fleeing. As of the latest reports on October 27, five prisoners have been arrested, while 12 remain at large.
How Did the Prisoners Escape?
The incident took place at Thekkampatti Sub-Jail in Theni district. According to preliminary investigations, the prisoners allegedly staged an epileptic seizure to convince prison staff to open their shared cell.
When the personnel entered the cell to assist them, the inmates allegedly attacked the staff and escaped from the facility. The incident has raised serious concerns about security arrangements and the procedures followed during medical emergencies inside prisons.
Three Prison Personnel Injured in the Attack
The alleged assault left three prison personnel injured. Grade II Police Constable Thangapandi sustained a serious head injury and was admitted to the Government Hospital at G Vilakku. Two other personnel reportedly suffered minor injuries.
Following the incident, police launched an extensive search operation across the region. Authorities also intensified vehicle checks and established 16 checkpoints in neighbouring Dindigul district to prevent the escapees from travelling further.
Five Prisoners Arrested, 12 Still Missing
The police initially confirmed the arrest of one escaped prisoner during combing operations near the jail. By later reports on October 27, the number of arrested prisoners had risen to five.
The remaining 12 prisoners are still being sought. Authorities have deployed 17 special police teams to track them down, with search operations extending across neighbouring districts and forested areas.
Police are also examining possible escape routes and investigating how all 17 inmates managed to overpower the prison personnel.
Nine Prison Staff Members Suspended
In a further development on October 27, reports stated that nine prison staff members had been suspended over alleged dereliction of duty following the jailbreak.
Senior prison officials have also visited the facility to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape. The inquiry is expected to examine the security arrangements, the handling of the alleged medical emergency and the events that allowed the inmates to flee.
One of Tamil Nadu’s Major Jailbreaks
The incident is being described in reports as one of Tamil Nadu’s significant prison escapes since 1995. The escape of 17 undertrial prisoners in a single incident has put the spotlight on prison security and the supervision of inmates.
With 12 prisoners still at large as of the latest available reports, police continue their search operation. Further investigation is underway to establish the full sequence of events and determine whether additional security lapses contributed to the incident.