Karachi: Sindh government on Thursday, today, appointed Fida Hussain Mastoi as Inspector General Prisons.
Previous officer on the post Qazi Nazeer has been removed over the jail break wichi resulted into fleeing of more than 200 inmates.
The Sindh home ministry has issued the appointment notification after amendment ordinance.
Two days ago, on Tuesday, in the aftermath of a recent earthquake, at least 216 inmates escaped from Malir Jail during the evacuation process, Jail Superintendent Arshad Shah confirmed.
Superintendent Shah talking to media stated that, over 80 prisoners who escaped on Monday night have already been recaptured, and a search operation is underway to apprehend the remaining fugitives.
He added that, the jailbreak occurred when inmates from Circle No 4 and 5 were moved out of their barracks as a safety measure during the tremors. “More than 600 prisoners were outside their cells at that time. In the ensuing chaos, 216 managed to flee,” Shah said.
Currently, over 135 prisoners are still at large, with authorities continuing their search efforts.
Sindh’s Home Minister, Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar, described the incident as one of the most serious jailbreaks in recent years.
He revealed that between 700 to 1,000 prisoners gathered near the main gate following the evacuation, and nearly 100 inmates forced their way out of the prison.
“Approximately 46 inmates have been rearrested, and we anticipate the rest will be caught soon,” he stated.
The home minister assured that all escaped inmates have been identified, and targeted raids are underway at their residences and surrounding areas. The chief minister has been briefed on the situation and has directed officials to personally oversee the operations.
Initially, reports suggested structural damage to the prison, but later clarifications confirmed that the escape was facilitated through the main gate, not due to any wall collapse.
Lanjar hinted at possible staff negligence and announced that an inquiry committee comprising police and other agency officials would be formed.
He vowed that strict disciplinary action would be taken against those found responsible.
