8 inmates bolt Lamitan jail

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Eight detainees, mostly facing drug charges, escaped from their detention cell in Lamitan City, Basilan yesterday.

Police said the incident occurred at around 8:30 a.m at the Lamitan City Jail (LCJ) in  Barangay Kulaybato.

Investigation showed that inmates Moumar Gandali and Norman Bisal asked Jail Officer 2 Ibrahim Hamja to allow them to dispose of the garbage.

Hamja reportedly agreed and ordered Taha Morales, reportedly LCJ’s trustee inmate, to open the lock of the cell.

As soon as they were out, Gandali and Bisal reportedly took two rifles and ammunition from an adjacent cell. They escaped along with six other prisoners, including Morales.

The other fugitives were identified as Jemar Usman, Alpa Julasbi, Moumar Ima, Roderick Agang and Arman Acalul.

Probers expressed belief that Morales conspired with the Gandali and Bisal.

A manhunt has been launched for the recapture of the fugitives.