Jail officials’ ordinary leave banned

By Our Correspondent
|
June 16, 2025
This image shows Punjab police personnel standing alert outside a jail. — AFP/File

LAHORE:The Punjab Prisons Department has imposed a ban on official leave, except in extreme emergencies, following the recent escape of 216 inmates from Malir Jail in Karachi.

According to sources, the jailbreak was partly due to the absence of warders at key posts. Punjab prisons are currently facing a severe staff shortage, including 1,040 warders, 151 head warders, and 94 chief warders. Leave will now only be granted for medical emergencies or weddings. A notification in this regard has been issued.