Hazaribagh, Jharkhand – A major security lapse has occurred at the Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan Central Jail, a high-security facility in Hazaribagh, with three convicted prisoners successfully escaping on Wednesday. This daring escape has triggered a massive search operation by law enforcement agencies, casting doubt on the robustness of security at one of Jharkhand’s most secure prisons. Jail Superintendent Chandrashekhar Suman has confirmed the incident, adding that initial information suggests the escapees are from Dhanbad district. Efforts are underway to disseminate their descriptions to facilitate their capture.
The escape came to light during a routine inmate headcount. Upon discovering three prisoners missing from their barracks, jail officials conducted an immediate internal sweep of the premises. When the search failed to yield any results, higher authorities and the police department were alerted. This led to a heightened security posture, including the sealing of the jail and its environs, and the commencement of searches in known or suspected hideouts.
Neighboring police districts have also been placed on high alert, with traffic checks intensified to intercept the fleeing convicts. Authorities are utilizing surveillance technology to track potential movements of the escapees. The incident has caused considerable concern among officials, particularly given JP Jail’s classification as a high-security institution. The prison is equipped with advanced security features, including a five-tier security system, round-the-clock video surveillance, and armed guards at all critical points. It currently holds notorious criminals and Maoist sympathizers.
Adding to the concern, the jail’s security measures had reportedly been strengthened recently. The Jail Inspector General had previously suspended twelve security staff members due to alleged security deficiencies. The current escape raises significant questions about the effectiveness of these supposed enhancements and the overall security management of the facility.