Mangaluru: In a late-night operation on Monday, prison authorities at the Mangaluru jail conducted a sudden inspection of inmate cells and seized prohibited items, including mobile phones and accessories. The surprise check was carried out by jail staff under the leadership of the Jail Superintendent, with the aim of preventing misuse of unauthorised electronic devices inside the prison premises.
During the inspection, officials confiscated two mobile phones, one SIM card and a cordless mobile phone charger that were found in the possession of jail inmates. The recovery of these non-permissible items has once again raised concerns about attempts to breach prison security norms.
Sudden inspection conducted
According to sources, the inspection was carried out late on Monday night, when jail officials entered several barracks and cells to conduct a thorough search. The operation was led by the Jail Superintendent, with wardens and staff members checking inmates and their belongings.
Such surprise inspections are periodically undertaken to ensure discipline within the prison and to curb illegal activities, including the use of mobile phones, which are strictly banned inside correctional facilities.
Case registered by Barke police
Following the seizure, Mangaluru Barke Police registered a case against the jail inmates concerned for possession of non-permissible items inside the prison. Police officials said appropriate legal action would be taken as per existing laws and prison regulations.
Possession of mobile phones and related accessories by inmates is considered a serious violation, as such devices can be misused to contact criminal networks, influence witnesses or disrupt prison administration.
Matter reported to higher authorities
District Superintendent of Prison Sharanabasappa said the matter has been brought to the notice of the Director General of Police for Karnataka’s Prisons and Correctional Services Department, Alok Kumar, in Bengaluru. A detailed report on the seizure and the circumstances under which the prohibited items entered the jail has been submitted.
Officials said an internal inquiry is also likely to be conducted to ascertain whether there were any lapses in security or monitoring that allowed the items to reach inmates.
Focus on strengthening prison security
Prison authorities reiterated that strict action would be taken against inmates found violating prison rules, as well as against any staff found negligent in enforcing security protocols. They added that additional measures are being considered to strengthen surveillance and prevent the smuggling of banned items into the jail.
Conclusion: The late-night inspection and seizure of mobile phones at the Mangaluru jail underline the need for constant vigilance within correctional facilities. Authorities have assured that security measures will be further tightened to prevent recurrence and maintain discipline inside the prison.