IEC launches security reform after former police officers lead mass jailbreak from Karenni resistance prison

Mizzima

The Interim Executive Council of Karenni State (IEC) has officially confirmed that a massive jailbreak at Mese Prison on 18 January was orchestrated by two staff members who were former junta police officers, prompting a total restructuring of the resistance-run detention system and a formal apology to the Karenni people.

According to IEC Secretary 2 U Banyar Khun Aung, the two masterminds were former privates from the Lawpita police force who had been captured during Operation 1111 and subsequently served prison sentences under the IEC’s judicial authority. However, following their release, they were integrated into the prison workforce as “active and rapport-building” staff members before using their positions to lead 76 prisoners of war and five drug-related inmates in a coordinated escape.

Investigations by the IEC Justice Department and intelligence from the Thai military suggest the escape had been meticulously planned for three months, with the fugitives pre-arranging meeting points in Thailand, securing mobile phones and SIM cards, and arming themselves with nine small arms stolen during the breakout.

A total of 83 individuals consisting of 76 prisoners of war, two prison staff members, and five inmates jailed on drug charges escaped from Mese Prison on 18 January, taking nine small arms with them.

Revolutionary forces pursued the escapees that same day. Eight were killed during an exchange of gunfire, and two were recaptured alive.

Five of the small arms and some ammunition were also recovered.

The remaining individuals surrendered to the Thai military, and the IEC announced that area clearance operations were concluded on 24 January.

The junta personnel who reached the Thai military were handed back to the Myanmar military by Thailand on 26 January via the No. 2 Myawaddy-Mae Sot Friendship Bridge.

Regarding the jailbreak, the IEC stated that they have formed an investigation committee to conduct an internal inquiry and report the details. They plan to prosecute the two prison staff members who facilitated the escape and will strictly manage security measures for the remaining prisoners of war and inmates in accordance with international POW laws.

The IEC’s statement further noted that they will implement separate arrangements for POWs, increase prison staffing, construct necessary infrastructure, and carry out prison security reforms.

Additionally, the IEC apologized to the Karenni people and all revolutionary forces for the public alarm caused by this incident, stating that they will continue to act with accountability and responsibility.