Alfitria Nefi P, Jakarta – The Directorate General of Corrections confirmed that dozens of inmates escaped from the Class II B Correctional Institution in Kutacane, Southeast Aceh, on Monday, March 10, 2025. Following the incident, the prison is now under control, with security reinforced by the police, military, and local authorities.
"The prison is currently secured by law enforcement and military personnel," said Rika Aprianti, Head of Public Relations and Protocol at the Directorate General of Corrections, in a statement on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Rika did not specify the exact number of escapees, stating that investigations and pursuit efforts were still ongoing. However, she assured that by 9:00 PM on the same day, the situation at the prison had stabilized.
The Head of Kutacane Prison had engaged with inmates in their respective blocks, and Southeast Aceh Regent Salim Fakhry had visited the facility to hold discussions with the prisoners.
According to statements from prison officers, as relayed by the Southeast Aceh Police, the escape occurred during the distribution of pre-fast meals, which was conducted one by one. Dissatisfaction among inmates reportedly escalated into a riot.
At around 6:25 PM, prisoners forced their way through an iron door leading to the secure section of the facility. Once the door collapsed, dozens rushed toward the main gate.
Rika emphasized that the meal distribution had adhered to standard procedures. "The provision of food to inmates follows regulations," she stated.
On the evening of the escape, several videos surfaced on Instagram, showing prisoners climbing over fences and fleeing the facility. Some were seen in orange prison uniforms, while others were shirtless.
While several inmates successfully escaped, others were recaptured and returned to custody. The Southeast Aceh Police launched a manhunt, and as of the latest update, authorities had apprehended 12 of the 51 escaped prisoners.
According to reports shared on Instagram by @humaspolresacehtenggara, the escapees initially broke through the ceiling in a staff room, climbed onto the roof, and forced their way through a metal covering. They then ran toward the main gate, which had not been secured in time, allowing them to flee in large numbers.
Currently, a joint team from the Southeast Aceh Police and Kutacane Prison continues to track down the remaining fugitives. Authorities urge the public to report any sightings or information regarding the escaped inmates.