Rawalakot Jail
In a daring incident on Sunday, 19 prisoners, including the notorious Ghazi Shahzad, escaped from District Jail Rawalakot in Poonch district of Azad Kashmir, reportedly seizing police officers as hostages during their breakout.
According to police reports, the inmates managed to overpower the police personnel at gunpoint before fleeing the premises. SP Bagh Khuram Iqbal provided details of the escape, revealing that the prisoners opened fire on the police during their bid for freedom.
During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, one prisoner sustained injuries and later succumbed to them. Law enforcement agencies swiftly set up blockades in the area to apprehend the escaped prisoners and restore security.
Ghazi Shahzad, notable for his past service in the Pakistan Army and subsequent involvement in various operations, had been incarcerated for a significant duration.
His history also includes a recent political involvement, having contested the last general elections from the Palindri city constituency under a United Movement ticket.
Shahzad’s detainment near Hajira had followed a press conference, after which he was charged under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) provisions.
His successful jailbreak today has raised substantial concerns regarding security protocols and institutional oversight.
The Inspector General of Prisons has assured the public of a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Authorities are intensifying efforts to locate and apprehend the fugitives swiftly, aiming to prevent any further breaches of security and ensure the safety of the public.
The incident has sparked heightened vigilance among law enforcement agencies and underscored the challenges in maintaining secure custodial facilities.
As the search for the escaped prisoners continues, authorities are emphasizing the importance of community cooperation and vigilance in assisting with their swift recapture.
