Ludhiana, Jan. 26 -- In yet another mortifying security lapse, an undertrial accused in a vehicle theft case escaped from police custody after allegedly slipping his hand out of the handcuffs while being escorted back from court. The incident marks the third such breach in barely ten days, raising questions over custodial security and police vigilance in the city.

The escape occurred when a police team from Division Number 2 police station was bringing the accused, identified as Vicky Raj, back to the police station after producing him and his accomplices in court. The police had secured his one-day remand and were returning when, near Jagraon Bridge, the accused allegedly took advantage of a momentary lapse, freed his hand from the hand...