In the event of a mass jailbreak, what is the primary duty of the custodial force?

In the event of a mass jailbreak, the primary duty of the custodial force is to plug off the escape routes. This action is critical as it helps to contain the situation and prevents escapees from leaving the facility. By sealing off potential exit points, custodial staff can effectively reduce the chances of escapees successfully fleeing, thereby maintaining security and order within the institution.

This approach prioritizes not only the immediate safety of the general public but also the safety of the remaining inmates and staff within the correctional facility. Effective route blocking allows law enforcement to control the perimeter and manage the situation in a structured manner, ultimately supporting any subsequent efforts to recapture the escapees.

Focusing on other choices, shooting escapees or issuing warning shots are not standard protocols aiming for a resolution in such crises, and protecting other inmates, while important, is typically part of the broader strategy encompassing blocking escape routes. Hence, plugging off the escape routes stands out as the foundational response in managing a mass jailbreak scenario.