Patna: Six armed men triggered bomb explosions and fired indiscriminately at the main entrance of Danapur jail near Patna, facilitating escape of four hardcore criminals during visitors' time today (Feb 13, 2004).

The chief warder and the warder of the jail, who were injured in the attack, and five constables, have been suspended for negligence of duty, officials said.

A stampede-like situation was created outside the entrance of the jail as visitors scurried for safety. Policemen too appeared helpless and ran for their own safety and protection of firearms, eye witnesses said.

The escapees were identified as Guddu Chaudhury, Chhotu Paswan, Sohan Dom and Mantoo Dom involved in cases of murder, loot, kidnapping, attempt to murder and cases under Arms Act.

Minister of State for Jail Ashok Choudhury did not rule out involvement of jail employees in the incident.

The inspector general of prisons has been asked to hold an inquiry into the incident, he said.

Admitting negligence on the part of jail authorities in allowing visitors to meet inmates without frisking, he said Danapur jail superintendent Prem Kumar and assistant jailor Bhim Singh have been asked to submit explanation.

Had the authorities complied with the circulars issued by the State Home Department on how to facilitate visitors' meeting with inmates the incident could have been avoided.

Security has been tightened in and around jails across the State after the incident and raids were on to apprehend the escapees, Choudhury said.