Attock prison staff under scrutiny after alleged coded conversation with PTI Chief

ISLAMABAD: The administration of Attock Jail has announced a comprehensive security audit of its personnel following an alleged “coded conversation” that transpired between a jail official and Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as reported by The News.

According to sources, the recording of the conversation between the jail official and Khan has unveiled linguistic nuances that have proven challenging for the administration to decipher. In response, the complete biodata of over 150 prison staff members at Attock Jail will be submitted to the Special Branch and other relevant institutions for meticulous security clearance.

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Simultaneously, directives have been issued to promptly collate comprehensive reports on the employees stationed at Attock Jail, incorporating details from their security clearance evaluations. This effort will encompass assessments of potential affiliations with extremist organizations as well as other activities, including any affiliations with political parties.

In a strategic move, the utilization of WhatsApp by jail staff has been prohibited through geofencing technology. The prohibition aims to reinforce security measures in light of recent developments.

Established in 1906, Attock Jail typically houses a prisoner population exceeding 1,000 individuals. However, at present, the inmate count stands at more than 700, with prisoners being provided C-class facilities.

In consideration of heightened security concerns, authorities are actively exploring the possibility of transferring over 100 prisoners to alternative facilities, including Adiala Jail and other correctional institutions.

During a recent meeting with his legal counsel, PTI Chairman expressed apprehensions regarding the conditions within the prison. He highlighted challenges such as an influx of flies during the day and the presence of insects at night within his cell.

Furthermore, the PTI party has initiated legal proceedings by approaching the Islamabad High Court to request the transfer of Imran Khan to Adiala Jail, where he would be provided A-Class facilities.