Choudwar jail escape: Mobile phone, charger seized; probe suggests major conspiracy and lapses

In a shocking breach of security, two prisoners escaped from Choudwar Jail in Cuttack, triggering serious concerns over possible conspiracy and negligence inside the prison.

Following the jailbreak, a search of the inmates’ cell led to the recovery of a mobile phone, charger, and power bank concealed inside the toilet. Investigators also found that the CCTV camera facing the cell had been deliberately turned away, indicating clear signs of premeditated planning.

Reports suggest that one of the prisoners had earlier informed authorities about the presence of suspicious items in the cell. However, despite this warning, routine cell inspections mandated under the jail manual were allegedly ignored. It has now come to light that the cell, where both inmates were housed, had not been searched for over three months.

Also Read: Action after escape of 2 hardcore criminals from Choudwar jail; 2 jail warders suspended

Sources said that the two escapees, Raja Sahani and Chandrakant Kumar, both hailing from Bihar, cut through the iron bars of their cells and scaled the boundary wall using a makeshift rope made of blankets. Though they were lodged in separate cells, the duo reportedly coordinated their escape while the warders on duty were absent from their posts.

Following the incident, two jail warders, including the chief warder, have been suspended for dereliction of duty. A departmental inquiry has been initiated to identify further lapses that may have facilitated the jailbreak.