Karachi — A violent clash erupted inside Karachi’s Malir Jail shortly after midnight on Monday, leading to a large-scale escape attempt by inmates and a chaotic security situation that gripped surrounding neighborhoods in fear.
According to police, dozens of prisoners managed to flee after launching a coordinated attack on jail authorities. While more than 20 escapees have been recaptured, the total number of those who fled remains unconfirmed. A policeman was critically injured during the assault and recovered from inside the jail premises.
In an effort to regain control, jail authorities responded with heavy aerial firing. Witnesses reported intense gunfire echoing through the nearby residential areas, forcing residents to stay indoors amid widespread panic. “It felt like a war zone,” said one local resident.
Sources say the prisoners managed to break through the prison’s entrance gate and attempted to flee en masse. Security forces, including police and Rangers, quickly sealed off the area, with the National Highway—adjacent to the jail—temporarily shut in both directions to prevent further escapes and ensure public safety.
A senior police official said an emergency headcount is underway to determine the exact number of prisoners who escaped. “We have contacted jail authorities to expedite the process,” he told reporters.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that sporadic firing was still ongoing during the initial hours of the crisis and that efforts were underway to stabilize the situation.
Sindh Prisons Minister Ali Hassan Zardari took immediate notice of the incident, demanding a detailed report from the inspector general of prisons and the deputy inspector of jails. He ordered the area to be fully cordoned off and directed that all escaped prisoners be recaptured without delay. The minister also emphasized that any officials found negligent would be held accountable.
As of the latest reports, the situation inside the jail remains tense, and further updates are expected as the investigation and headcount progress.
