Convict escapes police custody outside Coimbatore Central Prison

A 25-year-old man, identified as Raghavan, escaped from police custody in the early hours of Saturday, October 31, 2026, moments before he was to be admitted to the Coimbatore Central Prison. This incident marks the second time the individual, who was convicted of theft in Bengaluru earlier this year, has fled from police escort.

Timeline of Events

• June 19, 2026: Raghavan initially escaped while being transported from Coimbatore to Bengaluru. The Annur police subsequently registered a case regarding this departure.
• October 30, 2026: Law enforcement officials successfully apprehended Raghavan in Bhavani.
• October 30, 2026 (11:00 PM): The accused was produced before a magistrate at the Fast Track Court in Coimbatore, where he was remanded to judicial custody.
• October 31, 2026 (12:40 AM): While being escorted toward the Coimbatore Central Prison entrance, Raghavan reportedly pushed the police personnel and fled.

Police Response and Investigation

Following the escape, the Race Course police registered a case based on a complaint filed by the Annur police. To address security concerns, two petrol stations in Coimbatore managed by the Prison Department were temporarily closed. Authorities have initiated an extensive search operation involving:

• Drone surveillance and CCTV analysis.
• Intensified vehicle checks across the city and district.
• Coordination with police units in neighboring areas.

Four police personnel tasked with the escort have been placed under suspension pending an inquiry into the security lapses. The investigation is ongoing under the supervision of senior police officers.