Over 200 inmates escaped from a Karachi prison late Monday after earthquake tremors caused panic, prompting guards to unlock cells, according to Pakistani officials.
A mass jailbreak occurred in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, when more than 200 inmates fled from District Malir prison following a series of earthquakes late Monday night. Provincial law minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar said prisoners were temporarily released into the courtyard due to safety concerns after the tremors. Chaos ensued as inmates overpowered guards, seized weapons, and forced open the main gate.
The escape continued into early Tuesday, with prisoners seen running barefoot through nearby areas. Some even entered nearby residential complexes before being apprehended. According to Provincial Police, at least one inmate was killed and three guards were injured during a shootout.
Security footage showed damaged facilities, broken glass, and ransacked visitation rooms. Authorities stated that out of the 6,000 inmates housed in the prison, around 80 escapees had been recaptured as of Tuesday morning.
Provincial law minister acknowledged the escape as one of the largest in Pakistan’s history and said many inmates were already psychologically distressed by the tremors.
Read next
10:11
The Chinese embassy in the Philippines on Thursday warned the European Union to refrain from interfering in South China Sea affairs and cautioned Manila against “fantasising” about resolving maritime disputes through foreign support.
10:00
Morning
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for June 5th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
10:00
U.S. tariffs
Canada is ready to retaliate if talks with Washington fail to reverse the U.S. decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, as President Trump's move adds pressure on global trade and pushes allies into urgent negotiations.
09:48
Severe floods have devastated India’s northeastern Assam state, submerging villages and threatening endangered one-horned rhinos in a key wildlife sanctuary.
09:40
world news
The U.S. vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution demanding an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and unrestricted humanitarian aid access, citing the need to condemn Hamas and ensure their disarmament. The veto comes amid escalating violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment