Bhubaneswar, Aug 3: A rape accused allegedly escaped from the custody of the Bhubaneswar Mahila Police Station on Monday, triggering a massive search operation by the police.

The accused, identified as Rudra Prasad Sutar, had been brought from Bhadrak in connection with allegations of establishing physical relations with a woman on the pretext of marriage. He was scheduled to be produced before a court after interrogation.

According to police sources, the accused was taken out for breakfast under police escort. Taking advantage of a brief lapse in surveillance, he allegedly fled through the toilet area without having breakfast.

Following the incident, a case has been registered at the Capital Police Station, and an intensive manhunt has been launched to trace and apprehend the absconding accused.

Police officials have initiated an inquiry into the security lapse and are investigating the circumstances that enabled the accused to escape from custody. Further investigation is underway.