Sundargarh, August 31: Police have arrested 24-year-old undertrial prisoner Tekchand Behera, who had escaped from the District Headquarters Hospital five days ago. Behera was reportedly hiding in a forest near his village along with his wife.

According to police, Behera’s wife had been secretly visiting their home to collect food and other supplies for him. Police had been keeping a close watch on her movements. On Monday, when she was heading towards the forest, a team led by Town Police Station Inspector Sushant Kumar Parida and investigating officer Bhagirathi Jena raided the area and apprehended Behera.

Police have registered a separate case in connection with his escape.

Behera was originally arrested in connection with the murder of Bishal Kalo, which took place in Rupabahal village on the evening of December 24, 2025. After questioning at the police station, he was produced before court two days later, on December 26. As he was denied bail, he was lodged as an undertrial prisoner at the Sundargarh District Jail.

On Monday morning, Behera reportedly slipped and fell in the jail toilet, following which he complained of chest pain. After receiving preliminary treatment from the jail doctor, he was advised to undergo further treatment at the District Headquarters Hospital. Jail authorities admitted him to the hospital at around 1:30 pm, where he was kept under tight security in the surgery ward.

However, at around 8:56 pm, Behera allegedly escaped on the pretext of going to the toilet.

The security personnel on duty searched the premises but failed to locate him. Jail Superintendent Jibansingh Munda subsequently lodged an FIR at the Town Police Station at around midnight.

Following the incident, the jail superintendent suspended hospital warder Saumyarana Karn for alleged negligence in security duties.