A 35-year-old man facing serious criminal charges in connection with the death of a minor in 2023 escaped from Bhiwandi court on Monday during a routine court appearance.
The accused, Salamat Ali Ansari, a native of Bihar, was previously arrested in connection with a criminal case involving a minor. After the incident, he had reportedly left the city and was apprehended two days later.
On Monday, Ansari was brought from Thane jail to the Bhiwandi court along with several other undertrials. During the court proceedings, his handcuffs were temporarily removed for his appearance before the judge. Taking advantage of the crowded conditions, he managed to slip away unnoticed.
Senior Inspector Vinayak Gaikwad of the Shanti Nagar police station confirmed that a case has been registered for the escape, and efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend the accused.
Authorities are also reviewing security protocols at the court to prevent such incidents in the future. The escape has prompted calls for tighter oversight during court transfers, especially involving individuals in high-profile or sensitive cases.