Charles Sobhraj: From Tihar Jailbreak to Freedom in France

Charles Sobhraj, the infamous serial killer known as ‘The Serpent,’ has once again captured global attention. Convicted of multiple murders in the 1970s, Sobhraj’s life of crime, dramatic jailbreaks, and eventual release have inspired books, documentaries, and now a Netflix series. Born in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) in 1944, Sobhraj’s early life was marked by abandonment and discrimination, which many believe fueled his descent into crime.

In the 1970s, Sobhraj preyed on Western backpackers traveling the ‘Hippie Trail’ across South Asia. Using charm, forged passports, and poisoned food, he robbed and murdered his victims. His crimes spanned multiple countries, including Thailand, Nepal, and India. Sobhraj was eventually arrested in Delhi in 1976 after a botched attempt to drug French tourists. He spent 12 years in Tihar Jail, where he famously escaped in 1986 by drugging prison staff during a fake birthday celebration.

After his escape, Sobhraj was recaptured and extradited to France, where he lived quietly until 2003. In a surprising move, he returned to Nepal, where he was arrested and convicted for the 1975 murders of Laurent Carrière and Connie Jo Bronzich. Sobhraj served nearly two decades in a Nepalese prison before being released in December 2022 due to his advanced age and declining health.

Today, Sobhraj roams free in France, leaving behind a legacy of unanswered questions and speculation about the true extent of his crimes. While he has admitted to drugging and robbing victims, he denies responsibility for the murders. His story remains a chilling reminder of the lives lost and the enduring fascination with one of the 20th century’s most notorious criminals.