Even with a supposedly high-security system, mobile phones seem to be a persistent problem within the walls of the Parappana Agarahara Central Prison Complex.
This ongoing issue came to a head on September 23, when a surprise inspection led to a dramatic confrontation as officials discovered an inmate in possession of a mobile phone.
During the inspection of Tower 1, Barrack 1, inmate Essoh Germain raised suspicions with his behavior. He reportedly resisted officers, blocking their entry, physically assaulting them, and even throwing sambar to impede their search. After a struggle, prison staff successfully frisked him, uncovering a mobile phone and a SIM card cleverly hidden in his undergarments.
In what appeared to be an attempt to deflect attention or resist, Germain allegedly banged his head against a wall, sustaining injuries. He was immediately transported to the prison hospital for treatment. Following the incident, Superintendent of Prison Imaam Saab Myageri lodged a formal complaint with the Parappana Agarahara police, initiating a full investigation.
On Wednesday, authorities officially filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Essoh Germain. He faces charges under the Karnataka Prison Act of 1963, as well as sections 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant), 352 (intentional insults likely to breach public peace), and 323 (dishonest or fraudulent removal/concealment of property) of the recently enacted Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023.
Police are currently analyzing the seized mobile phone to uncover Germain’s activities while incarcerated and to trace the origins of the contraband device.