Prisoner Escapes from Nagrota Police Custody Amid Tight Security, Search Operation Underway

Jammu, November 9: In a startling security breach, a prisoner managed to escape from police custody at Nagrota Police Station on Thursday, prompting an intense manhunt by authorities. The escapee, Shabir Choudhary, son of Shah Mansha, had been recently apprehended along with his associates, including family members, in connection with a drug trafficking case. Charged under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, Choudhary was allegedly found in possession of 265 grams of heroin and Rs 4.05 lakh in cash at the time of his arrest.

According to police sources, the incident occurred when Choudhary was escorted to the washroom under the watch of a police constable. Seizing the opportunity, he reportedly overpowered the constable, pushing him aside before making his escape. The police station immediately raised the alarm, triggering a widespread search operation in and around the Nagrota area. Despite ongoing efforts, Choudhary remains at large, with the police urging local residents to remain vigilant.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Joginder Singh, confirmed that a fresh First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against Shabir Choudhary, adding charges of escape from lawful custody to his existing drug-related allegations. “We are conducting a thorough investigation into this incident and will take strict action against any officers found negligent in their duty,” the SSP stated, emphasizing the importance of accountability within the force.

This incident has sparked concerns over police protocols in handling high-risk detainees, particularly those implicated in serious criminal cases. Authorities have now intensified efforts to apprehend Choudhary and are likely to reinforce measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.