How Did Two Andhra Cops Get Suspended After a Notorious Criminal Escaped?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, two police constables were suspended after a notorious criminal escaped from custody in Andhra Pradesh. The escape has raised alarms and prompted extensive police efforts to recapture the fugitive, who is linked to over 100 robbery cases across multiple states.
Key Takeaways
- Two police constables suspended after a notorious criminal's escape.
- Battula Prabhakar wanted for over 100 robbery cases.
- Police formed 10 special teams to recapture him.
- Authorities request public assistance in locating him.
- This incident highlights the need for improved police protocols.
Vijayawada, Sep 23 (NationPress) - Two police constables in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district faced suspension on Tuesday following the escape of a notorious criminal from police custody.
Police Commissioner S. V. Rajasekhar Babu announced the suspension of Armed Reserve head constables Sugunakar Rao and Fredrick.
The criminal, Battula Prabhakar, made his escape on Monday evening while being escorted back to Rajamahendravaram Central Jail after a court hearing in Vijayawada.
Prabhakar, about 35 years old, fled police custody near Duddukuru village in Devarapalli mandal of East Godavari district around 7:30 p.m., still wearing handcuffs on one hand.
This incident has raised significant alarm in the district, prompting police to create 10 special teams to locate the undertrial.
Prabhakar, an accused in multiple robbery cases, was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black track pants.
Authorities have requested the public to report any information regarding his location and have announced a reward for credible leads that could assist in his capture.
He is wanted for over 100 burglary and robbery cases across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
Previously arrested in Visakhapatnam in 2020, Prabhakar had escaped custody in March 2022 while being transported from court to jail. He was recaptured in February 2025 during a dramatic shootout with police at a pub in Hyderabad's Gachibowli.
A head constable from Cyberabad Police sustained injuries during the operation to apprehend him when Prabhakar opened fire with a country-made weapon.
The police team succeeded in overpowering him, and he was subsequently brought back to Andhra Pradesh.
Prabhakar's escape marks the second such incident in Andhra Pradesh this month, following the escape of two remand prisoners from the Chodavaram Sub-Jail in Anakapalli district on September 5, who were captured within 24 hours.
The fugitives, Nakk Ravi Kumar and Bezawada Ramu, were arrested by Visakhapatnam police and handed over to Chodavaram Police. Ravi Kumar escaped by attacking a head warder with an iron hammer in the jail kitchen, subsequently stealing the warder's keys and a mobile phone to unlock the main gate. Taking advantage of the situation, Ramu also fled.
Point of View
The escape of Battula Prabhakar underscores critical issues within the law enforcement framework in India. The need for stricter protocols and heightened vigilance in managing high-risk detainees is evident. NationPress stands committed to highlighting these necessary reforms for the safety and security of the public.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the suspended police officers?
The suspended officers are Armed Reserve head constables Sugunakar Rao and Fredrick.
What charges does Battula Prabhakar face?
Battula Prabhakar is accused of over 100 robbery and burglary cases across multiple states.
How did Prabhakar escape?
He escaped while being escorted back to Rajamahendravaram Central Jail, near Duddukuru village, while still wearing handcuffs.
What is being done to recapture Prabhakar?
Police have formed 10 special teams and are urging the public to provide information regarding his whereabouts.
Has Prabhakar escaped custody before?
Yes, he previously escaped in March 2022 while being transported to jail and was recaptured in February 2025.
