Prison break in Papua New Guinea leaves 2 dead

At least 16 prisoners fled jail in island nation on Sunday

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA (AA) - At least two persons were killed following a jail break in Papua New Guinea, local media reported on Monday.

At least 16 prisoners fled the Buimo prison in Lae area on Sunday morning during visiting hours at around 10.00 a.m. local time (0000GMT), daily Post-Courier reported.

Citing a police officer, the daily reported the incident happened when a group of 32 prisoners were sent out to meet their families with 15 returning back to the compound, while the other 17 jumped over the fence to flee. One of them was killed.

The dead also included a prison guard.

The police officer said the escapees were convicted of serious crimes -- including murder, rape and armed robbery.

Authorities are investigating cause of prison guard's death.

Kaynak: