Police in Nakhon Sawan’s Muang District have launched a manhunt for 11 escaping prison inmates. So far, nine have been apprehended, while the other two remain on the run.

The 11 new inmates were reportedly waiting to be screened for COVID-19 at Khlong Pho temporary prison in Muang district, before joining the general population at Nakhon Sawan Central Prison, when they made their bid for freedom. Most of the inmates at the central prison are convicted of illegal drug related charges.

It is also reported that all 11 escaped around 6pm yesterday (Wednesday). Police, including investigative officers, have been deployed and have been cooperating with local government officials in Nakhon Sawan Tok, Baan Kaeng and Wat Sai sub-districts to recapture them. Local residents are advised to be careful and not to approach the escapees.

The nine recaptured inmates said that they escaped because they wanted to go home to see their parents and wives.