Rawalpindi police have registered a criminal case following the escape of 14 under-trial prisoners from a police transit van near Sihala and detained five police officers for alleged negligence. The investigation has expanded into one of the largest recent custody breaches in the country.
The case was filed based on a complaint by the lock-up guard. The escape occurred on Monday when prisoners were being transferred back to Adiala jail after a routine court appearance in Kahuta.
the FIR, 36 under-trial prisoners were inside the transit van when a fight erupted. Upon stopping the vehicle to address the disturbance, the inmates reportedly threw chili powder into the eyes of escorting personnel, enabling 14 prisoners to flee.
Authorities recaptured four escapees shortly after the incident, while search operations continue for the remaining 10 fugitives. Charges in the FIR include obstructing public servants, assaulting law enforcement officers, and escaping lawful custody.
Among those detained are five police officials, including the guard commander on duty during the transfer. Investigators are reviewing their mobile phone records and call data, as well as visitor logs from Kahuta court prior to the transfer.
The inquiry is also examining how many prisoners were handcuffed, the deployment and duties of escort personnel, the weapons issued to the convoy, and overall security protocols. Officials are assessing whether the standard operating procedures for prisoner transportation were properly followed.
In a significant development, Rawalpindi SP Headquarters Mudassar Iqbal was removed from his position and ordered to report to Lahore. Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar has mandated a high-level inquiry and requested a comprehensive report from the Rawalpindi Regional Police Officer.
Following the escape, a large-scale manhunt was launched in the rugged areas surrounding the Chakiya post. Police have placed Kahuta under high-security alert, sealing all entry and exit points and establishing strict checkpoints along Kahuta Road to inspect vehicles.
Local residents have been urged to report any suspicious activity. Rawalpindi police are coordinating closely with Islamabad district police due to the jurisdictional overlap at the crime scene.
