POLICE have launched a major operation across Enga Province to recapture 25 detainees who escaped from the Wabag Police Station lock-up last Wednesday.
An internal investigation has been ordered into the circumstances surrounding the breakout.
Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Steven Harris in a statement said police were searching for 16 remandees and nine police bail-refused detainees who escaped from custody and warned they would face additional charges once recaptured.
“A coordinated recapture operation is underway across districts,” Chief Supt Harris said in a statement on Friday.
“While those on remand or police bail refused have not been convicted, they were locked up for good reason, and they will be returned to the cells.
“The escapees who ran have limited options to hide, as we know their villages and their associates, so it is a matter of time, and they will face additional charges.”
He called on tribal and village leaders to assist police in locating the escapees, noting that many had previously helped officers arrest the suspects.
Chief Supt Harris urged the escapees to surrender peacefully, saying they were likely to receive lighter penalties than if they were forcibly arrested.
“Our priority is always the safety and security of the public,” he said.
“I call on the communities of the escapees to turn them over to police before we arrive, and together with police we will maintain calm. Surrender is the only lawful path open to them, and it is in their own interest to take it.”
Meanwhile, Chief Supt Harris confirmed that the escape and a related disturbance at the police station were under investigation.
He said an independent inquiry had been referred to the Internal Affairs Division to determine whether any police officers or other individuals were involved.
“If there was misconduct by any police member they will be dealt with as the law requires, as will anyone who assisted them,” he said.
Following the escape, some members of the public entered a restricted area of the Wabag Police Station, causing a disturbance. One person was arrested and charged with refusing to leave police premises and obstructing police.
Chief Supt Harris assured the people of Enga that police would continue pursuing the escapees while ensuring everyone responsible for the incident was held accountable.
“I make it my commitment to the people of Enga that we will do all in our power to recapture the escapees and, without fear or favour, get to the bottom of who is involved in this incident,” he said.