By MPA
The interim administration of Myanmar’s Karenni State has issued a public apology following a deadly prison break that saw dozens of detainees, including prisoners of war (POWs), flee custody in a meticulously planned operation.
The Karenni Interim Executive Council (IEC) confirmed on Thursday that eight escaping prisoners were shot dead by security forces after they resisted recapture.
The incident, which took place on 18 January, involved a total of 83 escapees. The group consisted of 76 junta prisoners of war, five drug offenders, and two prison staff members who allegedly facilitated the breakout.
According to the IEC’s investigation, the breakout was not a spontaneous event but the result of three months of coordination between the detainees and external contacts.
The inquiry revealed a sophisticated level of planning. Escapees had reportedly secured pre-arranged meeting points across the border in Thailand and had procured SIM cards and contact lists to coordinate their movements.
Furthermore, the group was equipped with weapons and rations to sustain them during the flight.
Following the breakout, local resistance forces launched a clearance operation to locate the fugitives.
The IEC reported that while attempting to recapture the group, a firefight broke out. “Eight prisoners who fought back were killed in the exchange, and two were captured alive,” the statement read. Security forces seized five small arms and ammunition from the recaptured individuals.
Significant to regional security observers, the IEC noted that the majority of the remaining escapees managed to cross the border, where they subsequently surrendered to the Royal Thai Army.
The two prison staff members accused of aiding the escape have been charged under criminal law.
In its statement, the IEC expressed “deep regret” to the Karenni public for the anxiety caused by the security breach.
The council has pledged to overhaul its detention protocols to align with international laws regarding the treatment of prisoners of war.
They have also issued an appeal to international organisations for technical assistance and funding to improve prison infrastructure and security standards.
An expanding special investigation committee has been formed to ensure full accountability.
