Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru 

Mangaluru, Nov 8: Muhammed Rafiq (28) from Goodinabali, Bantwal, who was an under-trial prisoner lodged in the district sub-jail here, escaped from the police escort and succeeded in running away. This incident happened on the evening of Friday November 8, when he was being brought back to the prison after being produced in Beltangady court relating to a hearing there.

Rafiq faces a number of cases pertaining to chain snatching, robbery, theft etc.

A case against Muhammed Rafiq was slated to be heard in Beltnagady court on Friday. Two police constables had accompanied him in a bus to Beltangady. After the conclusion of the hearing, he had been brought to the city. When the three got down from the bus near PVS Circle and were walking towards the prison, when Rafiq suddenly sprinted away near Ibrose Complex.

It is said that Rafiq had pre-planned this escape, and had arranged for a motor bike at the spot. When he and the police were nearing the prison gate, a youth came in a motor bike from the opposite direction. The police had not been holding the handcuff around the wrists of Rafiq, as they were almost on the verge of entering the jail. Rafiq made use of this opportunity, it is said.

The police have launched a manhunt for him but till late night, no clue was available. The police have, through a release, announced reward of Rs 5,000 to anyone giving information about Muhammed Rafiq.