Pakistan: 14 prisoners escape from prison van in Rawalpindi

Islamabad, June 29 (IANS) In a major security breach, 14 prisoners escaped from a prison van in the Kahuta area of Rawalpindi district, near Pakistan’s capital Islamabad, while they were being transported back to jail after appearing in court on Monday, police officials confirmed.

The incident occurred in the afternoon, when the prison van carrying the inmates was returning from a district court in Rawalpindi to the Adiala Jail.

According to police sources, the prisoners managed to overpower the guards and flee the vehicle in the Kahuta locality, a semi-urban area approximately 30 kilometres from Islamabad. The escape took place despite the presence of armed police personnel escorting the van.

Local police officials said the prisoners broke the locks of the van and fled in different directions, taking advantage of the congested roads and the absence of an immediate backup.

“The prisoners were being taken back to the jail after their appearance in the court. Preliminary investigation suggests that the inmates executed a pre-planned strategy to overpower the guards and escape,” a senior police officer told reporters.

Authorities have launched a massive search operation to track down the fugitives. Police teams have been deployed across the district, and checkpoints have been set up at key entry and exit points in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The police have also sought assistance from the Counter-Terrorism Department and intelligence agencies to gather leads on the possible hideouts of the escaped prisoners.

Initial reports indicate that the inmates were facing charges related to theft, robbery and other criminal offences. However, officials have not ruled out the possibility that some of the escapees could be linked to more serious crimes. “We are verifying the criminal records of all 14 escapees. Their backgrounds are being thoroughly examined,” the police officer added.

The incident has raised serious questions about the security protocols followed during prisoner transport. The Inspector General of Police has ordered an inquiry into the matter and has sought a detailed report from the Rawalpindi district police. Security officials have been directed to review the standard operating procedures for prisoner transportation to prevent such breaches in the future.

Local residents expressed shock and fear following the escape. “This is a very concerning development. If these prisoners are armed and dangerous, it poses a risk to the safety of ordinary citizens,” said a local shopkeeper.

The police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. A reward has also been announced for information leading to the recapture of the fugitives.

–IANS

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