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The Rawalakot prison escape was a security incident that took place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on 30 June 2024, when 19 prisoners, including six on death row, managed to escape from the Rawalakot district jail in Poonch district. ^{[1] [2]} The inmates overpowered the policemen at gunpoint before escaping. Dangerous criminals are also among those who escaped. ^{[3] [4]}

The escape

Allegedly, the prisoners took the police officers hostage during the operation. A prisoner managed to get hold of a pistol, which he used to subdue a guard and seize the keys to the prison cells. During the escape, there was an exchange of fire and one prisoner was injured and later died from his injuries. ^{[3] [4] [1]}

Aftermath

Following the incident, authorities in Azad Kashmir dismissed the Inspector General of Prisons and detained seven officials. ^{[5] [6]} The superintendent and several staff members of Rawalakot Jail were suspended due to negligence. ^{[6] [7]} An investigation was initiated to figure out how the prisoners had managed to escape. Law enforcement agencies set up blockades. ^{[3] [8]}

Investigation

The Azad Kashmir High Court was called upon to establish a judicial commission to delve into the incident. ^[6] A large-scale manhunt was launched to recapture the fugitives. ^[9] The police released the names of the escapees, and heavy security was imposed on the area. ^[7]

The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir offered rewards for information that could lead to the arrest of the escapees, including Rs 10 million for tips leading to the capture of six prisoners on death row, 50 lakh rupees on two prisoners serving 25-year sentences, and Rs 30 lakh up for the remaining fugitives. ^[10]

References