At least 216 prisoners escaped from Malir Jail in Karachi following an earthquake, prison authorities confirmed on Tuesday morning (June 3).
Speaking to the media, Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah stated that over 80 of the inmates who fled on Monday night have since been apprehended, and a search operation is underway for the remaining escapees.
Shah explained that the prison wall collapsed when inmates from circles 4 and 5 were being evacuated from their barracks as a safety precaution during the earthquake.
He noted that over 600 prisoners were outside their cells at that time, and amid the ensuing chaos, 216 managed to escape. Shah added that over 135 inmates are still at large, and search efforts continue.
Home Minister Calls it "Most Serious Jailbreak"
Meanwhile, Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar described the incident as the most serious jailbreak in recent years. He stated early Tuesday that the escape occurred when prisoners gathered near the main gate while being moved to another part of the prison. Lanjar confirmed that approximately 100 inmates forced open the gate and fled.
The minister added that all escaped prisoners have been identified, and raids are being conducted at their residences and surrounding areas.
Lanjar also clarified that initial reports suggested the incident was caused by a collapsed prison wall, but it was later confirmed that the escape happened through the main gate, not due to a wall collapse.
He hinted at the negligence of relevant personnel and announced that an investigation committee, comprising police and other agency officials, will be formed.
The Home Minister stressed that strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found responsible.
Prison Holds Many Inmates with Mental Health Issues
Separately, Sindh Inspector General Ghulam Nabi Memon, who visited the prison, informed the media that Malir Jail houses a significant number of inmates involved in drug-related cases, many of whom suffer from mental health issues.
Karachi has experienced at least six earthquakes in several areas since last Saturday.
