Chaos and Carnage in Kinshasa
In a devastating incident late Sunday night, at least 129 inmates lost their lives during an attempted prison break at the central Makala prison in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The government confirmed the fatalities and stated that the situation is now under control.
Interior Minister Shabani Lukoo revealed in a statement posted on X early Tuesday that the jailbreak attempt also triggered a fire, which ravaged the prison’s administrative building, food depots, and a hospital. Additionally, 59 people were reported wounded.
“The mass escape attempt at Makala Central Prison resulted in the loss of life and significant material damage,” Lukoo said in his video statement.
Failed escape effort
Contrary to initial fears, a prison official confirmed that no inmates managed to escape during the chaotic event. Those who attempted to flee were killed in the process. The government has launched an investigation into the incident to uncover the sequence of events and prevent future occurrences.
According to prisoners who spoke to Reuters, the breakout attempt occurred around 2:00 a.m. (0100 GMT) on Sunday. They recounted hearing heavy gunfire and commotion, indicating a highly coordinated and violent escape effort.
Government response
The DR Congo government is now focused on restoring order and ensuring the safety of the remaining inmates. The tragic loss of life and extensive damage highlight the urgent need for enhanced security measures within the nation’s penal system.
As investigations continue, the international community watches closely, hoping for swift justice and improved conditions in DR Congo’s prisons.