Pakistan yields to rebel prisoners
KARACHI JAN. 9The worst jail riots in Pakistan’s history ended after 24 hours following appeals to rebel prisoners that their “genuine grievances” would be removed, says Reuter.
The riots, which began on Friday and ended yesterday, coincided with a mass escape attempt in which up to 300 of the 1,500 inmates got away.
Police opened fire and used tear-gas to prevent the jailbreak, killing four prisoners and injuring about 10 others.
The bodies of the dead prisoners lay in the smoldering jail compound until warders removed them yesterday and took the injured to hospital.
Some were able to free from the high-walked Central Jail after breaking open a side gate. The rioters bumed down several building in the jail compound including the main gate house, while firemen stood outside helplessly.
The prisoners most of whom are still awaiting trial after being arrested on charges under the Martial rule of the former President, Mr. Yahya Khan- refused throughout the night to return to their barracklike cells.
They pleaded for an amnesty to be granted by the new President, Mr. Bhutto. Hundreds of the inmates staged a hunger-strike a week ago and one tried to burn himself to death.
The authorities used loud hailers to isse an appeal that the prisoners’ grievances would be heard and the situation finally was brought under control.
Governor Muntaz Ali Bhtuuo of Sind Province has ordered an inquiry.
AP from Rawalpindi adds: Pakistan’s Minister of Presidential Affairs Mr. J A Rahim, ordered prison authorities last night to shoot if necessary to quell the outbreak of prison riots.
“The outbreak of violence in jails will be suppressed wherever necessary by use of force and jail authorities will resort to the use of firearms if required to quell disturbances and prevent escape of criminals from jails.” Mr. Rahim said in a statement.
Reference: Hindustan Standard 10.1.72