Mangaluru: A prison inmate in Mangaluru was caught attempting to smuggle a mobile phone into the District Prison in Kodialbail by concealing it inside his rectum, officials said on Wednesday, April 30. The incident came to light during a routine security check conducted by Karnataka State Industrial Security Force (KSISF) personnel at the prison entrance.
Incident during return from hospital
The accused, identified as Mohammed Tohid, had earlier been admitted to Wenlock Hospital on April 24 for medical treatment. After being discharged on April 29, he was escorted back to the District Prison at around 5:15 pm under standard protocol.
Upon arrival, prison authorities initiated the mandatory security screening process, which includes frisking and metal detector checks to prevent contraband from entering the facility. During this process, a metal detector used by KSISF personnel emitted repeated alerts when scanned near the inmate’s lower body.
Suspicion leads to confession
The unusual detection prompted security personnel to question the inmate further. Initially evasive, Tohid reportedly confessed after sustained questioning that he had concealed a mobile phone inside his rectum in an attempt to smuggle it into the prison.
Authorities immediately took the matter seriously, given the strict prohibition on communication devices inside correctional facilities. Mobile phones are considered high-risk contraband as they can be used to coordinate criminal activities from within prison premises.
Medical intervention and recovery
Following the confession, the inmate was taken back to Wenlock Hospital under supervision. Doctors conducted a medical procedure and successfully retrieved a keypad mobile phone from his rectum without complications.
Medical officials ensured that the inmate did not suffer internal injuries during the removal process. He was later declared stable and returned to custody.
Case registered, investigation underway
The Barke police have registered a case in connection with the incident. Officials stated that further investigation is underway to determine how the inmate procured the mobile phone and whether any external assistance was involved.
Police are also examining whether there was a lapse in security during the inmate’s hospital stay, as such items are typically difficult to obtain without outside help. Authorities have not ruled out the involvement of accomplices, either within the hospital premises or externally.
Security concerns in prisons
The incident has once again raised concerns over attempts to smuggle prohibited items into prisons across Karnataka. Despite strict security measures, including surveillance, frisking, and use of technology such as metal detectors, individuals continue to devise unconventional methods to bypass checks.
Prison officials emphasised that regular training and vigilance by security personnel played a key role in detecting the smuggling attempt. “The alertness of KSISF staff ensured that the contraband did not enter the prison,” an official said.
Conclusion
The case highlights the persistent challenge faced by prison authorities in preventing the entry of banned items into correctional facilities. While the immediate threat was neutralised due to timely detection, the investigation is expected to uncover potential loopholes and reinforce security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.