No escapees have been caught yet as the search for the seven escaped inmates from the Lakiemata Correctional Services (CS) Facility in West New Britain province over the weekend, continues at this time.
Correctional Services Commissioner, Mr. Steven Pokanis advised that around 2pm Sunday 23rd April, the prisoners broke free from the High Security Facility and tried to make a run when they were intercepted by CS personnel where 16 escaped inmates were shot dead.
“24 prisoners cut the inner fence at the back of the High Security facility on Sunday around 2pm,” said the CS Commissioner.
One Prisoner is currently admitted at the Kimbe General Hospital while 7 are still on the run.
Meanwhile, situation on the ground is quite tense said the Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Peter Barkie.
The PPC mentioned that relatives of the deceased and other citizens raised concerns as to how the unfortunate turn of events came about.
“We had a few excited people on the ground. We also had relatives of the deceased come up to find out what was going on, but we’ve asked them to let the law take its course,” the Chief Superintendent said.
At the moment police are on foot searching for the remaining prisoners along with members of the CS.
PPC Barkie also stated that an official inquiry will be conducted to look into the matter, as soon as the Officers from the CS complete their own investigation.