19 prisoners – some of them convicted of terrorism – have escaped from a prison in Pakistan. Another attempted to escape, but is reported to have been killed in a shootout with the police.
The incident occurred in the city of Rawalakot in the part of Kashmir controlled by Pakistan.
The prisoners had a revolver that they used to hold a guard hostage, says Badar Munir, an official representing the local government.
It is unknown how the prisoners got hold of the weapon.
Prisons in Pakistan are notorious for poor conditions, corruption, human rights violations, and overcrowding. Slow judicial processes also often contribute to prolonged prison stays for the prisoners.
Militant groups have previously organized several prison breaks in Pakistan. In 2012, nearly 400 prisoners were freed in the northwestern city of Bannu.
