By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
At least 12 prisoners were killed in two jailbreaks in Bangladesh this week, following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, the country’s former autocratic leader.
The prison breakouts occurred in Jamapur and Kashimpur, both north of the capital, Dhaka. The inmates used weapons to attack guards, leading to deadly confrontations. In Kashimpur, over 200 prisoners managed to escape. These jailbreaks are part of a wave of unrest that has swept Bangladesh since protests against Hasina’s government began last month. The police, who have gone on strike due to concerns for their safety, are struggling to maintain law and order.
Warden Lutfor Rahman of Kashimpur High Security Prison stated, “The inmates used iron tools and rebar rods to attack guards and broke through the jail’s main gate, forcing army soldiers and jail guards to open fire.” Another warden, Abu Fatah from Jamapur, added, “They attacked us with iron rods and sharp weapons. They torched my office… We were forced to open fire.”
Source:
AFP via 365News.
