A massive jailbreak took place at Karachis Malir Jail late last night, following chaos triggered by a mild, localized earthquake. 200 plus inmates managed to escape after breaching the main prison wall, plunging the city into panic.
According to initial reports, the earthquake caused structural cracks in the prison facility, prompting jail authorities to move inmates out of their barracks as a safety measure. However, amid the confusion, prisoners overpowered the staff, seized weapons, and launched a violent breakout.
Gunfire erupted as prison guards and paramilitary forces tried to regain control of the situation. At least five security personnel, including two Frontier Corps (FC) members, were injured in the clash. One prisoner was killed during the exchange, and several others were wounded.
Karachi Police Launch Targeted Operation Against Illegal Foreign Nationals in Quaidabad
Karachi police and Rangers launched a swift search operation, managing to recapture more than 80 fugitives by early morning. However, between 50 to 150 criminals remain at large, prompting authorities to issue urgent warnings for citizens to avoid the vicinity of Malir Jail and surrounding areas.
Dramatic footage shared on social media shows prisoners fleeing barefoot under the cover of darkness. Eyewitnesses report hearing intense gunfire and seeing convoys of law enforcement moving in to seal off the area.
Traffic disruptions have also been reported. Authorities have closed both inbound and outbound roads near the National Highway, particularly the routes leading to Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Quaidabad, causing significant congestion. Alternative routes have been set up via Manzil Pump, Yunus Chowrangi, and Port Qasim to Miran Highway.
Jail officials have not yet issued a formal statement, but an inquiry is already underway. Sindh Minister for Prisons, Ali Hassan Zardari, has taken notice of the incident and demanded a detailed report from the Inspector General (IG) and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Prisons.
The area must be completely cordoned off. Every escaped prisoner must be caught at all costs, said Zardari in a late-night press briefing. He further stressed that any negligence or complicity from jail officials would be dealt with strictly.
As search operations continue, the city remains on high alert. Authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious activity and stay indoors where possible.
