CHITWAN: One hundred inmates remain at large following a mass escape from the District Prison Office in Chitwan on September 9, 2025, prison authorities said. Among those who have not returned, 11 are Indian nationals.

A total of 743 inmates, including four minors, had escaped from the facility that day. According to Prison Office Chief Rabindra Prasad Dhungana, 643 inmates have since been accounted for, with some returning voluntarily while others were apprehended and brought back by police.

Authorities have expressed concern that individuals accused of serious crimes are among those still missing, raising the risk of potential criminal activity in the community.

The prison administration had earlier directed escapees to contact the office by October 6, 2025, warning that failure to comply would result in legal action under the Prison Act 2022 and other prevailing laws. Individuals found harboring or assisting escapees will also face prosecution.

The facility currently houses 685 inmates, including 38 women.