Mass Jailbreak in Pakistan Unleashes Over 200 Prisoners Following Earthquake Chaos

In a dramatic and tumultuous escape, more than 200 inmates broke free from a Karachi prison in Pakistan after an earthquake struck the region, unleashing chaos and exposing glaring security lapses. The jailbreak, one of the largest in the country’s history, unfolded early Tuesday morning amid tremors that shook the southern city, allowing prisoners to seize their moment of chaos.

The incident began when the earth’s tremors prompted authorities to temporarily loosen restrictions, permitting hundreds of inmates to leave their cells. Seizing the opportunity, the prisoners overpowered prison guards, snatched firearms from staff, and forced open the main gate following a fierce shootout. Their daring escape was further complicated by the presence of paramilitary troops, who were ultimately unable to prevent the mass breakout.

Provincial Law Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar revealed that at least one prisoner was killed during the chaos, with three guards injured in the melee. Eyewitnesses described hearing sustained gunfire as prisoners fled in all directions, some barefoot and running through the city’s streets throughout the night while police units pursued them.

A security guard, Bukhsh, stationed at a nearby residential complex, recounted the unfolding drama: “I heard the firing for quite some time, and then some of the prisoners made their way out running in all directions. Some of them even entered our apartment complex before being taken away by police.”

The prison in question, District Malir, houses roughly 6,000 inmates and is located in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city. The breakout has raised serious concerns about security vulnerabilities, especially considering the prison’s lack of security cameras, as admitted by prison superintendent Arshad Shah. “Only a few of such a large number of prisoners escaped,” Shah told reporters, underscoring the scale of the breach.

Despite efforts to recapture escapees, police have managed to apprehend approximately 80 of those who fled. The nightlong chase continues as authorities scramble to restore order and prevent further escapes. The incident highlights pressing issues surrounding prison security and emergency response protocols in the region, leaving many questioning how such a massive breach could occur amid natural disaster chaos.