Prisoner Swallows Mobile Phone in Shocking Jail Drama
In a disturbing incident that has raised serious questions about prison safety in Karnataka, a convict serving a 10-year sentence had to undergo emergency surgery after swallowing a mobile phone. The case, which occurred in Shivamogga, has not only surprised medical professionals but also triggered a formal investigation into jail security protocols.
Patient Background and Emergency Symptoms
The inmate, 30-year-old Daulath alias Gunda, complained of severe stomach pain on June 24, 2025, while lodged in a high-security prison. He informed the prison’s medical team that he had swallowed an object, which prompted immediate concern.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the jail authorities referred him to the Government McGann Hospital in Shivamogga for urgent medical evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis: A Foreign Object in the Stomach
Doctors conducted an X-ray scan, which revealed the presence of a mobile phone inside the inmate’s stomach. The device was roughly 1 inch wide and 3 inches long, creating a potentially dangerous blockage and posing a risk of internal injury.
Surgical Intervention and Recovery
With the patient’s consent, doctors decided to proceed with the surgical removal of the device. The procedure was successful, and the mobile phone was carefully extracted from the stomach without further complications.
After surgery, the patient was kept under observation and is said to be recovering well. The phone was sealed and handed over to the prison authorities on July 8 for investigation.
Legal Action and Security Breach Inquiry
Following the incident, Jail Officer Ranganath P filed an official complaint at the Tunganagar police station. A criminal case was registered against the inmate under the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita, which deals with offenses involving prison violations.
In addition to this, authorities have begun a detailed investigation to determine how the mobile phone entered the prison, bypassing routine checks and surveillance. There are suspicions of internal involvement, and investigators are now looking into the possibility of collusion with prison staff.
Medical and Security Implications
From a medical standpoint, this case highlights the dangers of swallowing foreign objects, especially ones as large and harmful as electronic devices. If left untreated, such items can cause blockages, bleeding, or even life-threatening infections.
From a security perspective, the incident has exposed serious flaws in jail monitoring systems. Despite a high-security status, a banned item like a mobile phone made its way into the facility pointing to possible systemic negligence or corruption.
Conclusion
While doctors successfully managed the medical emergency, the incident has cast a spotlight on the urgent need to strengthen prison security and prevent similar situations in the future. As investigations continue, both medical and legal teams are working to ensure that all necessary actions are taken not just for accountability, but also to protect the health and safety of inmates and staff alike.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
