Six of 27 Mastung jail escapees voluntarily surrender after BLA-linked attacks

WEB DESK: Six of the approximately 27 prisoners who escaped from Mastung Central Jail during a major operation on January 31 have voluntarily surrendered and been returned to custody, officials confirmed on February 11.

The escape occurred during a wave of coordinated attacks across Balochistan claimed by the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and other armed groups, targeting police stations, government offices, banks, security installations, and the Mastung Central Jail itself. At the facility, assailants took staff hostage, broke locks, set parts of the jail ablaze, and facilitated the breakout. Several officials, including the jail superintendent, were injured. The escaped prisoners included both under-trial and convicted individuals facing charges of terrorism, murder, narcotics offences, and other serious crimes.

The January 31 attacks were described as one of the largest militant operations in recent years, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Security forces reported killing dozens of assailants, with figures varying between 92 and over 100 in follow-up operations, while militants claimed high numbers of security personnel killed. Civilian and security casualties were also reported, with hospitals placed on emergency footing.

The six prisoners handed themselves in to Mastung jail authorities, although officials did not provide details on their reasons for surrender. Efforts continue to apprehend the remaining 21 fugitives, with authorities assuring that they “will be arrested soon to ensure the rule of law.” Investigations are ongoing into potential security lapses and any internal assistance that may have aided the escape.