Mangaluru: The Mangaluru South Police have launched a manhunt after a man facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and a cheating case escaped from police custody at the district Wenlock Hospital on Sunday.
The accused, identified as Roshan of Moodbidri, allegedly took advantage of a momentary distraction at the hospital before fleeing from police custody, officials said.
Accused wanted in two criminal cases
According to police, Roshan is wanted in connection with a POCSO case registered at the Punjalkatte Police Station and a cheating case filed at the Barke Police Station.
The accused reportedly diverted the attention of the police personnel escorting him before making his escape from the hospital premises.
Police launch search operation
Following the escape, the Mangaluru South Police launched an intensive search operation to trace and apprehend the accused. Police teams have been deployed, and efforts are under way to locate him at the earliest.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the circumstances that led to the escape or whether departmental action will be initiated over the incident.
The police have appealed to the public to share any information that could help trace the accused, while assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to bring him back into custody.