KARACHI: In response to a significant security breach at Malir Jail, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has removed the Inspector General of Prisons and suspended both the Deputy Inspector General of Prisons and the Superintendent of Malir Jail. The chief minister’s actions follow an incident where 216 inmates escaped during a chaotic evacuation prompted by tremors in the area.

Describing the incident as “completely unacceptable,” Shah criticized the prison administration for gross negligence and inefficiency. He emphasized that those responsible would be held accountable and directed the Sindh Home Secretary to conduct a comprehensive security audit of all prisons in the province.

The announcement was made by Senior Minister for Information and Transport Sharjeel Memon, who briefed the media about the decisions taken during the emergency meeting at the CM House. The chief minister ordered Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to lead a thorough investigation involving Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi and Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho.

According to reports, during the tremors, prison staff moved inmates to an open courtyard, inadvertently allowing the situation to spiral out of control, enabling the escape. Of the 216 fugitives, 83 have been re-arrested. Officials noted that the escapees were involved in minor offenses and not facing charges of serious crimes.

Murad Shah appealed to the escapees to surrender voluntarily under the warning that failure to do so would result in prosecution under the Anti-Terrorism Act, with penalties including up to seven years of imprisonment.

The chief minister further criticized the jail authorities for a breakdown in communication and lack of preparedness, emphasizing the need for immediate coordination with local authorities and law enforcement during such events.

Speaking later at the inauguration of a rehabilitation center, Shah reiterated that a thorough investigation was ongoing to address the lapses and ensure accountability. He directed the chief secretary to formalize the appointments of new prison officials and report back promptly.