Mayurbhanj, Oct 25: A murder convict who was on the run for over one-and-a-half years has been arrested by police.

According to reports, Laxman Mahant, a convicted murderer had been on the run for over one-and-a-half years after escaping from Karanjia jail.

Mahant, who was serving a life sentence for murder, fled the correctional facility in the year 2024 and reportedly took shelter in Tamil Nadu to evade arrest.

Acting on a tip-off, police apprehended him when he returned to his native village in Mayurbhanj district to participate in Kali Puja festivities.

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Local sources say Mahant had been moving discreetly during the celebrations, but his presence raised suspicion among residents. A swift operation led by Thakurmunda Police ensured his capture without incident.

Authorities are now investigating how Mahant managed to escape and remain undetected for such a long period. He is expected to be remanded and transferred back to prison shortly.