Kottarakkara: A 21-year-old accused in a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act) case escaped from the courtroom after being remanded for violating bail conditions. The incident took place at the Kottarakkara Fast-Track Court, where the accused, identified as Abindev from Elamadu, fled the scene shortly after the court’s order.

The police have initiated a search to locate him. Abindev, who was accused in a POCSO case registered by the Chadayamangalam Police, had earlier been granted bail. However, the court issued a warrant against him after he failed to appear even after the bail period expired. Subsequently, his lawyer produced him before the court.

The court ordered remand citing breach of bail conditions and absence of guarantors. After being asked to step aside, Abindev, realising that he was being taken into custody, bolted out of the courtroom.

Women police officers and lawyers present on duty chased him but failed to catch him. Reports indicate that Abindev travelled in an autorickshaw. The police, who followed him in another auto, lost him when traffic brought their vehicle to a halt, allowing Abindev to escape on foot.

The Kottarakkara police have filed a case for escaping from judicial custody and have launched a detailed investigation. Despite conducting searches at his residence in Elamadu, he remained untraceable till late last night.