Bangladesh’s interim government said on Sunday that about 700 prisoners who escaped during the July-August political unrest are still on the run. Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury confirmed that efforts were still underway to re-arrest the fugitives, but he did not elaborate further.
The mass jailbreaks happen during political unrest, and the greatest number of break was witnessed in Narsingdi, which is near Dhaka, where 826 prisoners managed to escape from the custody. Chowdhury said that most of the people who had escaped have been captured, but investigations are on to capture those still at large.
There is no question of convicts being released under general amnesty after August 5. However, those granted bail will face consequences if found involved in criminal activities,” Chowdhury stated.
Concerns over public safety have risen following reports of increased robbery and extortion across the country. Chowdhury assured that strict measures are being taken against offenders to restore law and order.
He stressed the need for greater sincerity from the police force regarding law enforcement performance, though he dismissed any claims of personnel shortages.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining security and stability following the political unrest, as authorities face mounting pressure to bring the escapees to justice.