129 inmates still at large after Malir jailbreak

KARACHI: KARACHI: KARACHI: As many as 210 inmates escaped from Malir Jail late last night after a minor earthquake led to inmates being brought out of their barracks, officials told HUM News English.

Of the total 6,022 inmates at Malir Jail, 210 managed to flee. Police have since rearrested 78, while three prisoners voluntarily returned. A total of 129 inmates remain at large, according to a senior law enforcement officer who requested anonymity.

The officer revealed that the jailbreak occurred due to a shortage of jail staff. “After the tremors around 12:30 am, too many inmates were brought out at once. They overpowered the guards, rioted, and broke through the gates,” he said.

Karachi has experienced multiple low-intensity earthquakes in recent days, which may have contributed to the chaos.

Malir Jail also houses Indian fishermen arrested by maritime security agencies. However, officials confirmed that none of the Indian prisoners escaped, and all are accounted for.

In response to the incident, the Sindh government has removed the Inspector General (IG) Prisons.

Landhi Jail is located along the National Highway on the eastern edge of Karachi, near several industrial areas and a private university.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.

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 Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar described the incident as one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent years. He noted that between 700 and 1,000 inmates had gathered near the main gate during the evacuation, where nearly 100 prisoners 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 surrounding areas. He added that the chief minister has been briefed and has directed him to visit the prison.