Around 700 inmates, who escaped from prisons after August 5, are still at large, Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said today.

While most of the escapees have been recaptured, efforts are on to apprehend the remaining fugitives, including the top criminals released from jail on bail, who are believed to be involved in ongoing criminal activities, he added.

The home adviser made the remarks while inaugurating a new prison emergency service hotline, 09612, which aims to improve transparency and assist relatives of prisoners.

The 24/7 hotline will provide information about inmates, including their locations, court appearance dates, meeting schedules, phone call dates, physical condition, parole eligibility, and complaints or suggestions regarding their treatments.

Addressing rising concerns over robberies, extortion, and thefts in several regions, the home adviser said measures are being implemented to curb these crimes.

Law enforcement officers are being encouraged to improve their performance at check posts to ensure greater security and public safety, he added.