A major security breach occurred late Monday night at Malir Jail when tremors from an earthquake caused chaos, resulting in the escape of over 200 inmates, authorities confirmed.
According to jail officials, prisoners were temporarily relocated outside their barracks for safety during the earthquake. However, tensions quickly escalated as inmates assaulted security personnel and seized weapons from the guards, leading to a large-scale jailbreak.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Prisons Karachi confirmed that 216 inmates managed to flee during the disturbance. So far, 80 escapees have been recaptured from the surrounding areas, while more than 135 remain at large.
Read More: Fault Line Under Landhi Triggers Another Earthquake
The situation inside Malir Jail is now reportedly under control following a coordinated operation by the police, Frontier Corps (FC), and Rangers, who conducted a full sweep of the facility.
During the violent outbreak, one inmate was killed, and several others were injured, including five security personnel.
Sindh’s Home Minister addressed the incident, stating that the escape took place through the main gate rather than a breach in the jail walls. He acknowledged possible negligence and assured the public that thorough investigations are underway to identify the causes and hold responsible parties accountable.
The Home Minister also revealed that Malir Jail houses approximately 6,000 inmates, emphasizing the challenges of managing such a large population. He confirmed that Rangers, Police, and FC have regained full control of the jail and assured that the remaining fugitives will be arrested soon.
Read More: Jobless Father Poisons Children in Eid Despair
In response to the incident, Sindh Jail Minister Ali Hassan Zardari has demanded an immediate report from the Inspector General (IG) and DIG Prisons. He has also ordered strict security measures, including cordoning off the area to prevent further escape attempts.
Minister Zardari emphasized that all escapees must be apprehended and warned that any jail officers found guilty of negligence will face strict disciplinary action.
The investigation into the jailbreak and the circumstances leading to the security failure is ongoing.
