KARACHI – A dramatic jailbreak at Malir District Jail prompted swift stern response by Sindh government. In a late-night incident triggered by panic following earthquake tremors, over 200 inmates managed to escape the high-security facility, exploiting confusion during an emergency prisoner headcount.
The provincial authorities removed Inspector General of Prisons Qazi Nazir Ahmed from his post. Additionally, Deputy IG of Prisons Hassan Sahito and Jail Superintendent Arshad Hussain have been suspended as part of immediate accountability measures.
Sindh’s Senior Minister and Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, addressing a press conference, confirmed the incident and outlined the government’s response. A two-member inquiry committee—comprising Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi and Additional IG Javed Alam Odho—has been formed to conduct a detailed investigation and submit a comprehensive report.
According to Sindh Police Chief Ghulam Nabi Memon, 78 escapees have been recaptured so far. One prisoner was killed and two others were injured during the escape. Efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining fugitives are underway.
Initial investigations reveal that the jailbreak occurred during the temporary relocation of nearly 2,000 inmates for a headcount following the earthquake. In the resulting disarray, a group of prisoners reportedly breached a weakened section of the outer wall and fled. Many of the escapees are believed to be drug addicts, and officials suggest the incident was fueled by mass panic and mob behavior.
Personnel from the Frontier Constabulary responded with aerial gunfire—firing nearly 700 rounds—to contain the situation and prevent further escapes. A rapid police response established a security cordon around the facility, restricting movement in and out of the area.
Medical officials at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre confirmed that one inmate died from a gunshot wound, while four others, including two police officers, were treated for firearm-related injuries.
Minister Sharjeel Memon appealed to the fugitives to voluntarily return to custody by the end of the day, warning of intensified search operations in the coming hours.
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