Coronavirus Patients, Suspects Breakout of Sukkur Quarantine Center

As many as 100 people in Sukkur Quarantine Center have broken out of the designated wards after a WhatsApp message circulated and provoked the pilgrims from Taftan, on Saturday. The individuals out in the open –  but contained in the premises of the center – include both confirmed patients of Coronavirus and suspects who were needed to complete a 14 day quarantine period after returning from Iran.

As per reports, the riot started as a WhatsApp message alleging that Shia clerics and volunteer organizations providing food to the inmates have been barred entry in the quarantine center. This incited some individuals who then broke the barriers and came out to mix with healthy individuals.

According to ARY, an issue had been going on between the authorities and volunteer organizations to maintain distance with the patients and not access them directly for food. The ongoing tension resulted in mass breakout today after which Sindh Rangers and local police are trying to contain the quarantined individuals within the isolation center.

The Sukkur Quarantine Center currently holds 1200 to 1500 pilgrims from Taftan, out of which 150 are confirmed Coronavirus patients. After today, authorities are concerned whether those who were only completing their incubation period might also contract the virus.

Shia clerics and other representatives have been called in by the Sukkur administration to pacify the situation.