Nepal is facing a major law and order crisis after violent anti-government protests triggered mass jailbreaks and deadly clashes in prisons. On Thursday, three inmates were killed and 13 others injured during a violent clash with security forces at the Ramechhap District Prison in Madhesh province. Police said the confrontation started when prisoners tried to break out using a gas cylinder explosion.
The latest deaths bring the toll of inmates killed in clashes with security forces to eight since violence erupted on Tuesday. The unrest also forced Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli to resign, with the Nepal Army imposing strict restrictions across provinces.
Since Tuesday, more than 15,000 inmates have escaped from over 25 prisons across Nepal. Inmates stormed prison gates, set buildings ablaze, and fled in large numbers. Major escapes include 3,300 from Kathmandu’s Central Jail, 1,400 from Nakkhu Prison, and 1,100 from Dillibazar.
In Gandaki province, 773 inmates fled from Kaski District Prison, including 13 Indians and four other foreigners. India’s Sashastra Seema Bal also captured 13 escapees at the Bairganiya border checkpoint.
Authorities said security forces are working nationwide to re-arrest fugitives. The Department of Prison Management is still compiling the final escape figures.
