So far 8199 have returned, while 6354 remain at large

Kathmandu – The government has issued a 10-day ultimatum for prisoners who escaped during the recent “Gen Z protests” to return to jail, warning of legal action if they fail to comply.

The Ministry of Home Affairs announced a special campaign to locate, detain, and return the fugitives. For this, search and arrest taskforces have been formed in each district, led by Assistant Chief District Officers, with members from security agencies and other government bodies.

According to a press release from the Department of Prison Management, prisoners must return by Ashoj 20 (Monday). Those failing to do so will face punishment under existing laws.

The taskforces will coordinate with local administrations, security units, schools, campuses, transport hubs, bus parks, entertainment venues, and border points. The names of fugitives will be circulated, and public appeals will be made through media, social networks, and official channels. Anyone found sheltering or hiding escaped prisoners will also face action.

During the Gen Z protests, 14,553 prisoners and juveniles escaped from 28 prisons and 9 juvenile reform centers. So far, 8,199 have returned, while 6,354 remain at large, according to Department Director Chomendra Nyaupane.

Currently, 30,646 inmates are serving sentences in 75 prisons across 72 districts. Five districts—Dhanusha, Bara, Bhaktapur, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East), and Rukum East—do not have prisons.

The department said efforts are ongoing to restore damaged prison facilities and continue coordinated campaigns to bring back the remaining fugitives.