Dramatic Prison Break: 18 High-Risk Inmates Escape in PoK

Eighteen dangerous criminals, including six on death row, fled from a prison in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after overpowering a guard. The incident involved an inmate using a pistol to force the guard to surrender the keys. Authorities have launched a search operation and a probe into the breach of security.

At least 18 high-risk inmates, including six on death row, orchestrated a dramatic prison break from a facility in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after overpowering a guard, officials said on Monday.

The brazen escape took place on Friday when an inmate brandished a pistol, compelling a prison guard to hand over the keys that facilitated the breakout.

According to police sources, among the escapees were six death row convicts and three serving life sentences. Another prisoner, who was serving a five-year sentence, was shot dead during the escape attempt.

In response to the incident, police have initiated a large-scale search operation in the vicinity.

Authorities have also launched an investigation into the escape, resulting in the dismissal of the prison's chief and several other officers. Some officials have been detained for questioning, police said.

Samaa TV reported that seven officials, including the deputy superintendent of Rawalakot Jail, have been apprehended as investigations into the security breach commence.

Following the incident, all jails across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have been placed on high alert. A judicial commission has been requested by the government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)