Alleged thief bungles escape from Brazilian police station

An alleged jewel thief’s attempt to escape his cell in a Brazilian police station backfired when he became stuck in the observation window, with authorities having to free him so they could lock him back up again.

Video of the incident, which has attracted hundreds of thousands of views and comments, shows the hapless fellow, clad only in a pair of purple underpants, becoming increasingly agitated as a fire crew gingerly tries to pull him free.

His frustration boils over when their efforts fall short, and he bellows in pain and fury, prompting the rescuers to keep their distance.

The alleged thief then swings between the door frame and the wall as to contort his way free, but to no avail.

Reports suggest the door was eventually removed and the man freed through the use of a hydraulic tool.