# Madagascar irregular release of Chinese detainees > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/madagascar-irregular-release-of-chinese-detainees > Updated: 2026-10-21T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Authorities in Madagascar are investigating the unauthorized release of 11 Chinese nationals who had been convicted by the Malagasy justice system. Initial reports indicated that prison authorities confirmed no legal decision justified the release, leading to the suspension of the Avaradrano prison director and a judicial inquiry into the involvement of the Secretary General of the Prison Personnel Union (SPAPM). As the investigation progressed, the government expanded its response. During a Council of Ministers meeting, the administration announced the immediate dismissal of the Director of Prison Administration within the Ministry of Justice and the Director of Immigration Control under the Ministry of Public Security. President Michaël Randrianirina revealed that two additional attempted irregular releases had been reported, prompting investigators to look for links to an organized network. While the Secretary General of the prison agents' union claimed to have acted under orders from a high-ranking official outside the Ministry of Justice, Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison has pledged that sanctions will be applied to those responsible regardless of their rank. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-21: Madagascar officials dismissed following escape of 11 Chinese detainees Madagascar has dismissed two top officials and detained 15 people following the escape of 11 Chinese detainees and reports of further attempted irregular prisoner releases. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/madagascar-officials-dismissed-following-escape-of-11-chinese-detainees ### 2026-10-12: Madagascar investigates irregular release of 11 Chinese detainees Madagascar is investigating the irregular release of 11 convicted Chinese nationals, involving potential misconduct by prison officials and a union leader. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/madagascar-investigates-irregular-release-of-11-chinese-detainees --- Cite as: Madagascar irregular release of Chinese detainees. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/madagascar-irregular-release-of-chinese-detainees