Papua New Guinea: 11 prisoners killed by Police in prison break

Police in Papua New Guinea have killed 11 prisoners in a mass prison breakout in the country’s second largest city, Lae. 17 other prisoners were wounded in the process and have since been recaptured.

More than 90 men had stormed the main gate on Thursday and overwhelmed prison guards at the Buimo jail.

The jail break is the second in as many years at Buimo. Last year more than 50 prisoners escaped in a similar incident.

The number of prisoners still on the run is not yet known.

Metropolitan Superintendent of Lae, Anthony Wagambie has therefore warned of a rise in criminal activities.

“I am warning the general public to be cautious on their movements and take necessary precautions. I am anticipating a rise in criminal activities in the city with the large number of escapees on the run” he told local media.

The impoverished nation of Papua New Guinea continues to struggle with lawlessness, which the World Bank says has hampered its development.