Karachi jailbreak chaos: 135 prisoners still at large after earthquake evacuation

Karachi's Malir Jail experienced a massive jailbreak after a series of earthquakes triggered panic among inmates during a precautionary evacuation.
At least 216 prisoners escaped, with 135 still at large, according to Sindh's Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar, who called it the "most serious jailbreak" in recent years.
The jail, housing over 6,000 inmates mostly involved in drug-related cases, was overwhelmed as authorities focused on earthquake safety measures.
Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah confirmed the escapees fled amid the chaos caused by the seismic activity, which included 16 mild earthquakes since Sunday, per the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
Efforts to recapture the fugitives are ongoing, with over 80 prisoners already apprehended. Lanjar noted that 46 escapees had been captured but did not clarify the total number of escapees at that time.
This incident highlights the challenges of managing prison security during natural disasters, raising concerns about preparedness and response protocols.

"This is one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent years," Lanjar said, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Authorities continue to search for the remaining escapees while assessing the impact of the earthquakes on the prison infrastructure and inmate safety.
The chaotic evacuation underscores the vulnerability of correctional facilities in disaster-prone regions and the need for improved contingency planning.

At least 216 prisoners escaped from Karachi's Malir Jail amid earthquake-related evacuation chaos, with 135 still at large, officials said. The jailbreak, described as the most serious in recent years by Sindh's Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar, followed multiple earthquakes causing panic among inmates.