Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: A large-scale manhunt is underway after at least 213 inmates escaped from Karachi’s Malir Jail during an earthquake-related evacuation, authorities confirmed early Tuesday.
During the jailbreak, at least one prisoner was killed and several security personnel were injured, said rescue sources.
While around 89 prisoners have been recaptured, more than 127 remain at large as security forces intensify efforts to bring the fugitives back into custody.
Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah said the jailbreak occurred when inmates from Circles No 4 and 5 were taken out of their barracks as a safety precaution during the tremors.
“More than 600 prisoners were outside their cells at the time. Amid the chaos, 213 managed to flee,” he explained.
Sindh’s Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar described the incident as one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent years. He noted that between 700 to 1,000 prisoners had gathered near the main gate following the evacuation, where nearly 100 inmates forced the gate open and escaped.
The minister confirmed that all escapees have been identified and that targeted raids are underway at their residences and adjoining areas. He also confirmed that the chief minister has been briefed and has instructed him to visit the prison.
Lanjar dismissed initial reports of structural damage, clarifying that the escape occurred through the main gate and not due to any wall collapse. He hinted at possible staff negligence and announced the formation of an inquiry committee to investigate, promising strict disciplinary action against those found responsible.
Inspector General Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon, who visited the jail, explained that Malir houses a large number of inmates involved in drug-related cases, many with psychological issues, making them comparatively easier to track and recapture.
He ruled out any premeditated plan behind the escape and praised police and Rangers for their swift response.
In a rare turn of events following the mass jailbreak, the mother of one of the escaped inmates brought her son back to prison.
Speaking to the media, she said her son had returned home after the earthquake-related chaos led to the escape of several prisoners. “He told me many inmates fled due to the tremors, so he also ran home,” she said, adding that she walked with him back to jail on foot.
Meanwhile, police confirmed the arrest of another escaped prisoner from New Karachi. The inmate reportedly faces multiple charges across various police stations, including possession of illegal weapons and drug trafficking.
So far, 79 prisoners who escaped from Malir Jail have been rearrested.
