Ten on the run after jailbreak

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: Six of 16 prisoners who fled from Baubau Prison in Buton on Sunday were recaptured, an official said on Monday.

The fleeing prisoners wounded five wardens, Antara reported.

Head of the prison Bambang Winahyo confirmed the incidents and said that local police were searching suspected hideouts of prisoners still at large.

"We are focusing on some nearby islands and we have also safeguarded the exit points in the city," he said.

The jailbreak started when a convict reported that he was sick to an on-duty warden. When the guard unlocked the door, 16 prisoners pushed their way through by beating the warden.

"There were 10 wardens but they were unable to control the situation, and four guards upstairs did not know of the incident," Bambang said as quoted by Antara.

Bambang speculated that a jailed former police officer masterminded the jailbreak. (emf)