Manhunt underway after over 200 inmates escape from Pakistan’s Karachi jail

A massive manhunt is underway after at least 213 inmates escaped from Malir Jail, Pakistan’s Karachi, during an earthquake-related evacuation, officials confirmed.

The escape, which authorities described as one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent memory, occurred amid chaos when prisoners were moved out of their cells as a safety precaution, Caliber.Az reports, citing Pakistani media.

Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah said the incident began when inmates from Circles No 4 and 5 were evacuated during the tremors. “More than 600 prisoners were outside their cells at the time. Amid the chaos, 213 managed to flee,” he explained.

Rescue sources confirmed that one prisoner was killed and several security personnel, including three Frontier Corps (FC) members and one jail staffer, were injured in the melee. FC personnel initially tried to control the inmates using batons and aerial firing, but were overwhelmed.

Sindh’s Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar said between 700 to 1,000 inmates had gathered near the main gate. “About 46 have been caught, and we expect the rest will be rearrested soon,” he said. He confirmed all escapees have been identified and targeted raids are underway at their residences and surrounding areas.

Lanjar dismissed structural damage as the cause, clarifying, “the escape occurred through the main gate and not due to any wall collapse.” He also suggested potential staff negligence and announced an inquiry committee, promising disciplinary action.

Inspector General Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon, after visiting the jail, stated that most escapees were involved in drug-related cases and many had psychological issues, making them easier to track. He ruled out a premeditated plan and commended law enforcement’s response.

Meanwhile, the IT room housing prisoner data was vandalized, with visible bullet shells and damage throughout the facility. Security has been increased in Shah Latif Town, Quaidabad, and surrounding areas, though police presence remains limited.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah criticized the decision to evacuate inmates, stating, “Although nothing of the sort is good, I'm a student of engineering, and if there are repeated earthquakes, it means that there won't be a major earthquake.” He warned fugitives to surrender, noting most had been held for minor crimes.

By Vafa Guliyeva