Following a powerful earthquake, over 200 inmates broke free from Malir Jail in Karachi, with police struggling to recapture those still at large amid ongoing unrest in the facility.
Over 200 Inmates Escape Karachi Jail During Earthquake Chaos
Over 200 Inmates Escape Karachi Jail During Earthquake Chaos
Inmates at Malir Jail took advantage of a seismic event to flee the facility, raising concerns about prison overcrowding and security.
More than 200 inmates escaped from a Karachi prison after an earthquake struck the region, causing panic among the detainees. During the early hours of Tuesday, tremors shook the Malir Jail, prompting many prisoners to break down their cell doors and windows, leading to a mass breakout. According to police reports, while 80 of the escapees have been recaptured, over 130 inmates remain on the run. Tragically, one inmate died during the police operation, and two officers were injured as the situation escalated.
In a statement to the BBC, the prison superintendent revealed that inmates expressed their fears about the building's stability during the quake, with many shouting for help. After authorities intervened with warning shots, several inmates returned to their cells, yet 216 managed to flee through the main gate amid the chaos.
Following the incident, police have intensified their search efforts, conducting door-to-door visits to locate the escaped inmates. The Malir Jail, the second-largest facility in Sindh province, is currently housing over 5,000 prisoners, far exceeding its capacity of 2,200. In response to the jailbreak, Ali Hassan Zardari, the provincial minister for prisons, announced an investigation into the incident, promising disciplinary action for any personnel found at fault.
Despite assurances of heightened security measures, families of inmates have voiced their frustration, as they have been unable to visit due to the ongoing unrest at the prison. As additional unrest unfolds, the situation remains a pressing issue for authorities in Karachi.
