Accused in murder case escapes from police custody in Asifabad

A murder accused escaped from police custody in Asifabad on Tuesday night. The suspect, who killed a villager over sorcery suspicions, fled during interrogation. Police have launched special teams to trace him as residents fear for their safety.

Kumram Bheem Asifabad: An accused in a murder case escaped from police custody at the Rebbena police station on Tuesday night, triggering concern among residents.

Sidam Vinod, who was arrested for allegedly hacking Hanumanth Rao, 50, to death at Pittaguda hamlet under the Mangi gram panchayat in Tiryani on the night of November 1, was being interrogated when he was permitted to have dinner. He managed to slip away from the station. He was taken into custody for killing Rao, whom he suspected of practising sorcery.

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Superintendent of Police Kantilal Patil said special teams had been formed to trace and arrest Vinod. Security was increased in Pittaguda as locals expressed concern for their safety after the accused escaped from custody.

Residents said Vinod might attack them as he had grown suspicious of several villagers. They urged the police to ensure he was prevented from targeting civilians.