One prisoner has been killed and several others have been injured in a clash between inmates at Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail, with the incident reportedly involving two groups of prisoners.
According to media reports, the confrontation began over the closure of the jail kitchen during meal service. One of the injured prisoners, identified as Ashraf, was taken to General Hospital, where he later died from severe injuries.
Ashraf was incarcerated in connection with a murder case, while another injured prisoner, identified as Falak Sher, is being held in connection with a narcotics case, according to media reports.
The Punjab Home Secretary took immediate notice of the incident and ordered a high-level inquiry, according to a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department.
A three-member inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the clash.
The committee comprises DIG Prisons Lahore Mohsin Rafiq, DIG Prisons Headquarters Shaukat Feroze and DIG Prisons Inspection Naveed Rauf.
The committee is investigating the incident and gathering information from injured prisoners and members of the jail staff, the spokesperson said.
The inquiry will determine responsibility for the incident, after which the culprits will face action in accordance with the law, the spokesperson added.
The Home Secretary has also directed prison authorities to ensure that the injured inmates receive the best possible medical treatment.
According to the department, Inspector General (IG) Prisons Mian Salik Jalal and Additional Secretary Prisons Roman Borana are present at General Hospital on the Home Secretary’s instructions, where they are overseeing the treatment of the injured prisoners.
