Isn't it easier to manage the spread from guards than the prisoners? It is understandable to release some inmates if there is an outbreak in the prison itself, though.
But perhaps the government can think with smarter ways, such as giving them house arrest.. They claimed they released the not dangerous ones including those who are jailed from small crimes, elder inmates, woman and youth inmates.
But some of them turning back to crime, like one of the released "youth inmates" robbed again some worker. Or one in Manado who attempted break into 2 houses in a day not long after he was released. Who's actually benefiting from this?