Ongoing protests by Gen-Z demonstrators have exacerbated the instability in Nepal, even after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation. This situation has led to a mass prison break, with more than 13,000 inmates escaping from 15 different jails.
Prior to the escapes, the country’s jails held approximately 30,000 inmates. The breakdown in law and order, fueled by escalating violence and the government’s collapse, saw police diverted from their duties, allowing protestors to target police stations and government buildings. The ensuing chaos enabled the inmates to make their escape. Furthermore, weapons were stolen from police facilities.
The proximity of several of these jails to the Indian border has prompted concern within India, as escaped prisoners could potentially cross the border. Consequently, the Indian army has been deployed along the Nepal border.
According to the Nepal Ministry of Home Affairs and Nepal Police, a total of 13,572 inmates have escaped.
The number of escapees from each jail is detailed below:
* Jhumpka Jail: 1575
* Nakku Jail: 1200
* Delhi Bazaar Jail: 1100
* Kaski Jail: 773
* Chitwan Jail: 700
* Kailali Jail: 612
* Jaleshwar Jail: 576
* Nawalparasi Jail: Over 500
* Sindhuligadhi Jail: 471
* Kanchanpur Jail: 450
* Gaur Jail: 260
* Dang Jail: 124
* Solukhumbu Jail: 86
* Bajhang Jail: 65
* Jumla Jail: 36
The total number of escaped prisoners has reached 13,572, including those who fled from other jails and police custody.
With Oli’s resignation, military rule has been implemented in Nepal. Army chief Ashok Raj has called on protestors to de-escalate and engage in talks. Discussions around forming an interim government are underway, with Balendra Shah and Sushila Karki being considered for leadership.