Parts of Karachi plunged into tension on Monday night as a violent incident erupted inside Malir Jail, where prisoners reportedly clashed with law enforcement and attempted a breakout.
Sources indicate that inmates launched a sudden and coordinated assault on police personnel within the prison. As the situation escalated, police resorted to extensive aerial firing to restore order and thwart a mass escape.
According to sources, prisoners breached the main gate of the facility and began fleeing in a large group. Prison police then opened fire on the escaping inmates.
Despite security measures, dozens of prisoners are believed to have escaped, though police have yet to confirm exact figures. However, authorities successfully apprehended over 20 of them. Furthermore, a wounded police officer was found in critical condition within the jail premises.
The sounds of gunfire from inside and around the jail sent shockwaves through nearby residential areas. Panic spread rapidly, with locals reporting continuous firing from both directions of the prison. Many residents found themselves trapped indoors as the chaos unfolded.
The National Highway, situated next to the jail, was temporarily closed in both directions due to security concerns. Traffic came to a standstill as police and Rangers cordoned off the area to prevent further escape attempts and ensure public safety.
A significant deployment of law enforcement, including Rangers and additional police units, quickly arrived at the scene. Security officials confirmed ongoing firing and stated that efforts were underway to stabilize the situation.
“We have contacted jail authorities to conduct an urgent headcount to determine how many prisoners may have escaped,” a senior police official informed reporters.
Jail DIG Hassan Sehto later told the media that the entire prison had been sealed off, adding that some prisoners and police officers sustained injuries. He further stated that the prisoners inside the jail were under control, and authorities would conduct a headcount to ascertain the number of escapees.
He emphasized that police, Rangers, and FC personnel had responded promptly to the incident.
Area residents described the situation as terrifying, noting that the sounds of gunfire echoed through the streets. “It felt like a war zone,” one local recounted. “We could hear gunshots non-stop and didn’t dare step outside.”
Sources confirmed that the situation within the jail remains tense, and further updates are anticipated once the headcount is completed.
Prisons Minister Takes Action
Sindh Prisons Minister Ali Hassan Zardari has taken notice of the reports concerning prisoners escaping from Malir Jail. He has requested a detailed report from the Inspector General of Prisons and the Deputy Inspector of Jails.
“The area must be completely cordoned off, and if any prisoner has escaped, they must be apprehended at all costs,” the minister instructed. He further directed that officers found negligent in the incident be identified and held accountable.
