Was There a Massive Jailbreak in Karachi Amid Earthquake Chaos?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 216 inmates escaped from Malir District Jail during an earthquake.
- Initial reports of wall breaches were inaccurate.
- The situation escalated into violence with multiple injuries.
- A manhunt for the escaped inmates is currently underway.
- Security measures have been enhanced across Karachi.
Karachi, June 3 (NationPress) A significant jailbreak occurred at Malir District Jail in Karachi, triggered by the chaos following earthquake tremors, which led to the escape of over 200 inmates.
Authorities confirmed that a total of 216 inmates successfully fled amidst the turmoil on Monday night, many of whom were charged with serious offenses.
The jailbreak escalated into violence, with inmates reportedly overpowering guards, seizing weapons, and engaging in a gunfight with security forces. One prisoner was killed, and several others, including three Frontier Corps (FC) officers and a prison guard, sustained serious injuries during the ensuing conflict.
This dramatic escape was initiated when mild earthquake tremors were felt in Karachi, with the epicenter located southeast of Malir at a depth of 10 kilometers, causing significant alarm within the prison.
As a precaution, hundreds of inmates, numbering between 700 and 1,000, were relocated from their cells and assembled near the main gate. This unintended gathering provided an opportunity for a group of more than 100 prisoners to force open the main gate and escape.
Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar clarified that initial reports regarding inmates breaking through the prison wall were incorrect. While the tremors resulted in visible cracks in the wall, it remained intact and was not utilized during the escape. Instead, the prisoners took advantage of the confusion and breached the gate, using seized weapons to open fire on guards, escalating the situation into a full-blown crisis.
The city was promptly placed on high alert, and a manhunt was initiated. As of Tuesday morning, 75 inmates had been recaptured, while others remain at large. Videos circulating on social media showcased escaped inmates wandering through Karachi’s streets, some claiming they had been incarcerated for decades, which further heightened public concern.
Security measures have been intensified across the city, and an investigation is underway to determine how such a significant breach could occur.