"Our data indicates that 495 inmates are still in the prison, and we have evacuated 119 inmates," Siak Police Chief Adjunct Senior Commissioner Ahmad David remarked here on Saturday.
The police have continued their search for the prisoners, he revealed.
David confirmed that 119 inmates were evacuated to the Tengku Maharatu building located in proximity, whereas 495 others had yet to be moved to other prisons in the neighboring districts owing to the extensive damage caused to Siak prison.
The unrest was triggered by the inmates' discontent and objection to the arrest of their fellow by the police for alleged consumption of narcotics in the jail.
The irate inmates reacted violently, setting ablaze the front section of the prison at around 2 a.m. local time. The agitated inmates also hurled stones at security officers.
The fire brigades were able to put out the fire prior to the dawn prayer, but most of the prison had already been ravaged by the flames.
EDITED BY INE
Translator: Bayu Agustari, Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
