Over 200 Inmates Escape Karachi Prison Following Earthquake Tremors

In one of the largest prison breaks in Pakistan’s history, 216 inmates escaped from Malir District Jail in Karachi late Monday night after a series of mild earthquakes rattled the city. Prison authorities had evacuated inmates from their cells as a safety precaution during the tremors when a group of prisoners overpowered guards, seized weapons, and fled the facility.

According to Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar, the chaos erupted as prisoners were gathered outside their cells in the courtyard. Nearly 100 inmates forced open the main gate, leading to the mass escape. Security forces responded with aerial firing, resulting in one inmate killed and three security personnel injured during ensuing clashes.

Police and paramilitary forces have since launched a massive manhunt. So far, 78 escapees have been recaptured, while over 130 remain at large. Authorities confirmed that none of the fugitives are convicted militants; most are charged with drug-related offenses and other crimes.

Malir Jail, designed to hold around 2,200 inmates, currently houses over 5,000, highlighting severe overcrowding and infrastructural challenges. The prison superintendent described the incident as a consequence of natural disaster panic rather than a security failure.

Sindh Inspector General of Prisons announced an inquiry into the escape, with disciplinary action promised against any negligent staff. Meanwhile, security has been tightened in surrounding neighborhoods, and residents have been urged to report sightings of escapees.

This unprecedented jailbreak has raised serious concerns about prison management and disaster preparedness in Pakistan’s correctional facilities. Authorities are racing against time to recapture the fugitives and restore order.

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