Police in Pakistan's garrison city of Rawalpindi are hunting for nearly a dozen inmates who escaped from a prison van on Monday, officials said. The incident occurred in the Sihala area of Islamabad, prompting a large-scale search operation.
Escape Details and Initial Response
Prison vans in Pakistan are often overcrowded, lack modern surveillance and locking systems, and are accompanied by limited security personnel during transfers. Initial investigations suggest a fierce fight broke out among the prisoners ahead of the escape, according to police. Four prisoners were arrested during the search, but police did not confirm how many remain at large. Local media reports indicate a hunt is ongoing for 10 other inmates.
Official Statements
“Special teams are conducting a search operation for the arrest of the remaining inmates,” Rawalpindi police said on X. “An investigation has also been initiated under the supervision of senior officers. Strict departmental action will be taken against those responsible.”
Previous Prison Breaks in Pakistan
Pakistan has seen several similar incidents in the past, prompting calls for authorities to upgrade prisons, improve transport infrastructure, and strengthen security protocols. In June last year, more than 200 inmates escaped from Malir prison in Karachi after being shifted outside their cells due to earthquake tremors. A year earlier, 20 detainees, some accused of terrorism, staged a prison break in Azad Kashmir, with at least one killed in the crossfire during the escape. Militant groups have also organized mass jailbreaks, including one in Bannu in 2012 that freed 400 prisoners.
Ongoing Search and Accountability
Rawalpindi police have formed special teams to track down the remaining escapees. Senior officers are supervising the investigation, and strict departmental action is promised against those found responsible for the security lapse. The incident highlights persistent weaknesses in Pakistan's prison transport system, which has long been criticized for overcrowding and inadequate security measures.
