Chaos in Karachi: Over 200 Inmates Flee Malir Jail Amid Earthquake Panic

A large-scale manhunt is underway after 213 inmates escaped from Malir Jail during an earthquake-related evacuation late Monday night. Authorities confirmed that at least one prisoner was killed, and several security personnel were injured in the chaos.

Escape & Recapture Efforts

While 80 prisoners have been rearrested, more than 130 remain at large as security forces intensify efforts. Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah explained that the jailbreak occurred when inmates from Circles No. 4 and 5 were moved outside their barracks as a precaution during tremors.

Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar described the incident as one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent years. He noted that 700 to 1,000 prisoners had gathered near the main gate, where nearly 100 inmates forced it open and escaped.

Authorities have identified all escapees, and targeted raids are underway at their residences. Lanjar dismissed initial reports of structural damage, clarifying that the escape occurred through the main gate rather than a wall collapse. He hinted at possible staff negligence and announced an inquiry committee to investigate.

Security Response & Prison Conditions

Inspector General Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon ruled out any premeditated plan behind the escape and praised police and Rangers for their swift response. He noted that Malir Jail houses a large number of drug-related offenders, many with psychological issues, making them easier to track.

During the jailbreak, Frontier Corps personnel attempted to stop the inmates with batons before resorting to aerial firing, but were overpowered. Three FC personnel and one jail staffer were injured, and one prisoner was killed.

A joint operation involving police, Rangers, Frontier Corps, SSU, and RRF was launched to track the escapees. Law enforcement has since regained full control of the jail.

Damage & Investigation

The IT room’s servers and equipment were damaged, affecting prisoner data. Several rooms were vandalized, with bullet marks and shattered glass visible throughout the prison.

Sindh Prisons IG Qazi Nazir stated that the earthquake caused cracks in the barrack walls, leading to the inmates’ attack on security personnel. Families of prisoners have arrived at the jail seeking information, prompting police to release a list of escapees.

Security has been tightened around the prison’s vicinity, including Shah Latif Town, Quaidabad, and nearby slum areas. However, police personnel numbers remain low, and checkpoints inside the jail have been established.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah criticized the decision to bring prisoners out of their barracks, warning that escapees must surrender or face harsher charges, including terrorism.

An emergency meeting has been called at the Chief Minister’s House, attended by IG Prisons, DIG Prisons, Chief Secretary, IG Police, and Home Secretary to ensure accountability.