In a dramatic turn of events in Pakistan, at least 216 inmates escaped from Karachi's Malir Jail late on Monday night, exploiting the panic triggered by a series of earthquake tremors. The jailbreak has left security forces scrambling to restore order, with one prisoner reportedly killed during a gunfire exchange and over 80 fugitives already recaptured.
According to police and prison authorities, tremors shook the city just before midnight, causing widespread chaos both inside and outside the prison complex. Taking advantage of the confusion, a large group of inmates breached security barriers and fled into the night.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the prison’s power supply briefly failed, leading to a breakdown in surveillance and automated locks. Gunfire was heard during the escape, and security reinforcements were rushed to the scene. Authorities confirmed that one escapee was fatally shot during a confrontation with guards, while others sustained minor injuries.
Law enforcement agencies launched an extensive manhunt across Karachi shortly after the incident. As of Tuesday afternoon, at least 80 of the escaped inmates have been located and taken back into custody. Roadblocks, aerial surveillance, and door-to-door searches are ongoing in multiple areas of the city.
“We are working tirelessly to apprehend the remaining fugitives and investigate how the jailbreak was orchestrated,” said a senior police official. He added that a preliminary inquiry has been launched to determine if the escape was premeditated or opportunistic.
This incident has sparked serious concerns about prison security infrastructure and emergency preparedness in Pakistan’s largest city, especially in high-risk facilities like Malir Jail.
The government has yet to issue an official statement, though sources indicate that emergency protocols and additional security checks are being reviewed across all major jails in the country.
Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
