Security Breach at Morigaon District Jail Leads to Warden Suspensions and Manhunt for Escapees
In a significant fallout from a recent jailbreak, the Morigaon District Jail has suspended two wardens, Tapan Bhuyan and Anup Malakar, after an investigative report revealed serious negligence that facilitated the escape of five undertrial prisoners. This action comes on the heels of a thorough investigation conducted by the Inspector General (IG) and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the jail, which highlighted critical lapses in security during the incident.
The escape occurred in the early hours of October 11, coinciding with the Durga Puja festivities, when the five prisoners managed to break free from their barracks. Utilizing blankets and bed sheets, they scaled the prison’s 20-foot walls after forcibly removing the iron bars from their cells.
Among the escapees was Abdul Rashid, whose body was tragically recovered from a pond in Lahorighat on October 14. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of his death to determine whether it was accidental or involved foul play. Meanwhile, the other four escapees—Saifuddin, Jiarul Islam, Nur Islam, and Mafidul—remain at large, prompting law enforcement to ramp up efforts in their manhunt.
In light of the security breach, disciplinary actions have been swift. The jail’s Jailer Prasanta Saikia was suspended on the same day as the incident, while Assistant Jailer Nabadeep Lekharu has been transferred to the Nagaon Special Jail. Additionally, Jail Superintendent Manas Das has been reassigned to Hamren Jail as part of the ongoing accountability measures.
The District Commissioner of Morigaon has mandated a magisterial inquiry into the jailbreak. Additional District Magistrate Pallavi Kachary has been appointed to lead this investigation, which is expected to yield findings that will guide necessary enhancements to security protocols at the facility.
This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the effectiveness of the current security measures at Morigaon District Jail, highlighting an urgent need for comprehensive reviews and reforms within the prison system to prevent future breaches.
