Cuttack: In a major security lapse, two hardcore undertrial prisoners escaped from Choudwar Circle Jail by scaling the boundary wall in Odisha’s Cuttack district, officials said on Friday.
The two, who hail from Bihar, reportedly took advantage of the absence of a warder on duty and cut through their cell, fleeing the facility in the wee hours. The incident took place when the staff and prisoners were celebrating Dussehra late on Thursday.
Following the incident, the prison authorities have launched an investigation to ascertain how the criminals were able to breach their cell and scale the jail walls. Further probe is also underway to ascertain whether they received any external assistance in executing their escape plan. They also announced a cash reward of Rs 50,000 for information.
It may be recalled that the two were arrested on January 4 in connection with a high-profile robbery from a jewellery shop located at Panikoili in Jajpur district.
During the robbery, the accused had allegedly opened fire inside the shop, causing the death of two people. Local residents had overpowered the miscreants and handed them over to the police.