Security and law enforcement authorities in Srinagar have launched a massive manhunt after two under-trial prisoners booked under the stringent POCSO Act managed to escape from Srinagar Central Jail. The sudden breakout has triggered an intensive search operation across the valley. The Kashmir Zone Police have released the identities and details of both absconding inmates, urging citizens to come forward with any helpful information. Authorities have officially announced that anyone providing credible clues leading to the capture of the fugitives will be suitably rewarded.
Identities of the Escaped Inmates
According to jail authorities and police records, the two escaping undertrials have been identified as Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar and Farman Khan. Both individuals were facing serious charges under the POCSO Act in separate criminal cases and were awaiting trial while detained inside the penitentiary. The Kashmir Zone Police took to the social media platform X to share details regarding the fugitives, appealing directly to the general public for assistance in tracking them down.
Background of the First Accused
Police records state that the first fugitive, Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar, is a resident of Sanglan Chitergul in Anantnag. A formal criminal case was registered against him at the Soura Police Station in Srinagar. He was facing prosecution under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita alongside Section 3/4 of the POCSO Act, keeping him behind bars as an under-trial prisoner.
Details of the Second Accused
The second escaped inmate has been identified as Farman Khan, who hails from Sadanpora Ragistan. A criminal case had been registered against Farman Khan at the Lar Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the POCSO Act. Investigators are currently probing how the two inmates managed to breach the high-security perimeter and whether any external or internal accomplices aided their breakout.
Lookout Notice and Search Operations
Following the brazen jail break, law enforcement agencies swiftly initiated a multi-pronged search operation. Special police teams are combing through potential hideouts, tracking known associates, and gathering intelligence on their possible movements. A formal lookout notice has also been circulated to prevent them from fleeing the region. Checkpoints have been reinforced across connecting routes.
Appeal to the Public
The police have urged citizens to immediately report any sightings or information regarding Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar or Farman Khan to the nearest police station. Authorities assured that informants' identities will be protected and reiterated that a proper cash reward awaits anyone whose tip leads to their arrest. Residents can also dial the emergency helpline number 112 to share leads. Law enforcement remains fully mobilized to apprehend the escaped undertrials at the earliest.
