Prison Break Chaos: Over 200 Inmates Flee Karachi Jail Following Earthquake

In the aftershocks of a powerful earthquake, more than 200 prisoners escaped from Malir Jail in Karachi, triggering a large-scale search for the fugitives.

In the early hours of Tuesday, Karachi experienced tremors from an earthquake that rattled a prison and elicited panic among the inmates. As fear spread throughout Malir Jail, over 200 prisoners broke free by demolishing doors and locks, seizing the opportunity amidst the chaos. Local authorities indicated that, while 80 of these escapees were recaptured, over 130 remain unaccounted for, spurring comprehensive manhunts throughout the city.

The tumult began just after midnight; the quake's tremors instilled a sense of dread, with inmates shouting for help, fearing the structure’s collapse. In a panicked reaction, many prisoners returned to their cells as security forces responded, firing warning shots into the air to restore order. However, 216 inmates made their way to the main gate, exploiting the confusion to flee the facility.

Law enforcement is now engaged in door-to-door searches, revisiting past residences of those on the run. With an official capacity of 2,200, Malir Jail is currently overwhelmed, housing approximately 5,000 inmates, illustrating the strain on Pakistan's correctional facilities.

Prisons Minister, Ali Hassan Zardari, has launched an investigation into the incident, promising that any neglect among the officers will be addressed. The prison superintendent insisted that the escape was not a reflection of security failure, attributing the situation to the natural disaster that ignited the unrest.

Frustrated family members have gathered outside the prison, expressing discontent over postponed visitation rights following the upheaval. The situation remains tense as authorities work to regain control and accountability in the aftermath of this significant disturbance.