17 Inmates Escape From Theni Jail After Faking Epilepsy Attack, Police Nab 4

Seventeen inmates escaped from a sub-jail in Theni district of Tamil Nadu on Monday night, October 26, after allegedly creating a fake medical emergency and attacking prison staff. The inmates reportedly pretended that one of them was suffering from an epileptic seizure. When the prison staff opened the cell to help, the inmates allegedly attacked them and escaped.

The incident triggered a major search operation, with police teams deployed across nearby areas to trace the escapees. The escape also raised questions about security arrangements inside the jail.

How the Inmates Planned Their Escape

The 17 inmates were kept inside the same prison cell. At around 10.30 pm, they allegedly began shouting and claimed that one of the inmates was having an epileptic seizure. Hearing their cries for help, prison staff approached the cell to check the inmate's condition. The inmates reportedly used this opportunity to attack the staff and make their way out of the prison.

Their actions appeared to be a planned attempt to escape rather than a genuine medical emergency. Authorities are investigating the incident to understand how the inmates managed to carry out the escape.

The incident left prison staff injured. A staff member identified as Thangapandi suffered a head injury during the attack and was taken to a government hospital for treatment. Two other prison personnel also reportedly suffered minor injuries. The injured staff members received medical attention, while senior officials were informed about the escape.

Prison authorities and police officers reached the spot and began checking the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials are also looking into whether there were any gaps in security or delays in responding to the situation.

Police Form Special Teams to Trace Escapees

Following the escape, police launched a large search operation to locate all 17 inmates. Several special teams were formed to search different areas and collect information about the escapees. Police personnel began checking roads, vehicles and possible hiding places in and around Theni district. Security checks were also increased in neighbouring areas to prevent the inmates from travelling farther away.

Police in nearby districts, including Dindigul and Madurai, were alerted and asked to help with the search. Officials also shared information about the escaped inmates so that they could be identified and caught quickly.