Sorong. West Papua Police have issued a warning to the public to remain vigilant after 53 inmates escaped from the Class II B Sorong Correctional Institution in West Papua on Sunday, Jan.7, 2024. The police are currently conducting extensive manhunts, blocking all land and sea transportation routes.

Sofyan Efendy, an official from the Sorong City Police, said the authorities were conducting routine raids and checkpoints at various public transportation access points, both on land and at sea.

"The Sorong Police are conducting raids to block the inmates' escape route. As ordered by the Chief of West Papua Police, we conduct daily sweeps or raids. We have identified all the names, including their faces matching the ID cards, and we will continue to do so," he said when contacted on Saturday.

According to official data from the West Papua Regional Police, out of the 53 escaped inmates, 11 have been apprehended so far, while the remaining 42 are still being pursued.

Despite ensuring a conducive environment, Sofyan urges residents to remain cautious during their activities. 

"We advise the public to carry on with their daily activities as usual, stay calm, but remain vigilant. Crimes cannot be predicted," he said.