Mass Jailbreak in Karachi Following Earthquake Incident

In a dramatic turn of events early Tuesday, more than 200 prisoners escaped from Malir Jail in Karachi following a powerful earthquake that induced panic among inmates. Initial reports indicate that around 80 of the escapees have since been recaptured, while authorities continue to search for at least 130 prisoners still at large. The situation escalated when inmates began to fear for their lives as tremors rocked the prison, causing a frenzy.

With many prisoners initially shouting for help, the chaos intensified as they began breaking down doors and shattering windows, prompting a police response. Officers fired warning shots in an attempt to restore order, resulting in some inmates returning to their cells. However, a significant number took the opportunity to storm the main gates, leading to the mass escape. One inmate was killed during the response, and two prison officers were reported injured.

Malir Jail, located in the Sindh province, is over capacity, housing around 5,000 inmates despite its limit of 2,200. The provincial prisons minister, Ali Hassan Zardari, has initiated an investigation into the incident and indicated that any security personnel found negligent will face consequences. The superintendent has defended the facility's security measures, attributing the jailbreak to the natural disaster rather than a failure of security protocols.

Families of inmates have since gathered outside the prison, expressing frustration over postponed visitation rights amid the unfolding crisis.