KARACHI: Following the escape of 216 inmates during an earthquake evacuation at Malir jail, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took strict action, removing the inspector general of prisons and suspending the deputy inspector general and jail superintendent with immediate effect.
Calling the incident “completely unacceptable,” the CM cited gross negligence by the prison administration and vowed accountability. He directed the Sindh home secretary to conduct a comprehensive security audit of Malir jail and all provincial prisons.
An emergency meeting chaired by Murad Ali Shah involved senior ministers and officials who were briefed on the jailbreak. So far, 83 fugitives have been recaptured while search operations continue for the remaining.
The CM urged escaped prisoners to surrender voluntarily, warning of prosecution under the Anti-Terrorism Act with possible imprisonment of up to seven years.
The jailbreak occurred amid tremors when inmates were moved to the open courtyard for safety, leading to chaos and loss of control. Murad Ali Shah criticized the lack of immediate communication with local authorities and law enforcement, calling it a “complete breakdown” of preparedness.
At a later event, the CM reiterated the government’s commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation and assured reforms to close prison system loopholes.
He instructed the chief secretary to promptly issue notifications for the newly appointed IG jail, DIG, and superintendent.
