Karachi saw a major jailbreak on Monday, and hundreds of inmates reportedly escaped from Malir Jail.

Jail officials said prisoners were relocated from their barracks after the earthquake tremors. The escape happened during this time.

The earthquake measured 2.4 in magnitude. It hit at 11:16 PM. It was the 11th tremor in 48 hours. However, sources say that the jail walls were already weak. This gave prisoners a chance to flee.

The escape led to a heavy police operation. Gunfire was reported around the Malir jail, and three FC officials were seriously injured. They were transferred to a private hospital, while others sustained minor injuries.

Search Operation and Official Statements

DIG Prisons Hassan Sahito confirmed the incident. He stated that 6,000 inmates were present at the time. “After the tremors this morning, panic spread among the prisoners, and some even broke locks attempting to escape,” he said.

He added that most escapees were drug addicts, and they broke out from two to three points.

Police and Rangers launched a joint operation, and both sides of the National Highway were closed. Surrounding areas, including Shah Latif Town, Gaddafi Town, and Bhains Colony, were searched.

So far, 73 escapees have been caught, and locals have been helped by reporting suspicious people.

Sindh Interior Minister Zia Lanjar said a full investigation is underway. He stated, “Initial information suggests the prisoners were moved out of their barracks due to the tremors.”

He added it’s unclear whether they broke the wall or just the locks.

Elite forces like the SSU and the SRF joined the search while jail authorities are checking the remaining inmates. Moreover, they’re also confirming the structure’s safety.

Rangers now guard the jail’s outer area, and the Police and FC have secured the inside.