NewsFlash Daily™
09 April 
An undertrial accused booked under MCOCA assaults a constable inside the court premises and escapes, triggering a massive manhunt across Mumbai transport hubs
Mumbai: In a startling breach of security, an undertrial accused managed to escape from the Mumbai Sessions Court after attacking a police constable, raising serious concerns over safety protocols within court premises. The accused, identified as 42-year-old Harrison Anthony Joseph, reportedly assaulted a police official and fled the scene while still in handcuffs.
The shocking incident unfolded when Joseph, who was brought from Arthur Road Jail for a court hearing, suddenly turned violent and attacked Police Constable Prashant Kamble. Taking advantage of the chaos, he escaped from the court environment, leaving authorities stunned.
Accused Booked Under MCOCA
Harrison Anthony Joseph is facing serious charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). He was earlier accused of opening fire on a man in March 2024, a case that led to his arrest in January 2025. His criminal background has intensified concerns over how such a high-risk accused managed to flee from a high-security environment.
Massive Manhunt Launched
Following the escape, a case has been registered at Colaba Police Station. Mumbai Police have launched a large-scale search operation, deploying multiple teams across key locations, including railway stations, bus terminals, and other major transit points.
“We have intensified surveillance across all major transport hubs. Special teams are actively tracking the accused,” a senior police official stated.
Links to Previous Assault Case
Investigations reveal that Joseph, along with his associates, was allegedly involved in an earlier attack on a bag seller named Raju Sheikh using an air gun over a minor dispute in 2024. The case further highlights a pattern of violent behaviour associated with the accused.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities suspect that Joseph may attempt to flee the city or state, prompting heightened vigilance across entry and exit points. Officials are currently examining lapses in court security that allowed the escape to occur.
The incident has sparked widespread concern regarding courtroom safety and the handling of high-risk undertrial prisoners. Further investigation is underway.
