At least 129 people have died following an attempted jailbreak at Makala Central Prison in Congo.
Gunfire reportedly erupted from inside the prison around midnight on Sunday, September 1, continuing into the early hours of Monday.
Online videos depict numerous bodies on the ground, many with visible injuries, while other footage shows inmates transporting what appeared to be deceased individuals into a vehicle. Reports suggest that the majority of deaths resulted from a stampede.
In a statement on X, Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemin Shabani confirmed the casualties and extensive damage caused by the escape attempt. He reported that besides the fatalities, 59 individuals were injured and are receiving medical care, and some women were assaulted.
Shabani stated, “Following instructions from higher authorities, I have convened a crisis meeting with the heads of defense and security services.”
“The preliminary toll stands at 129 dead, including 24 from gunfire, while the rest died due to stampede or suffocation. The administrative buildings, registry, infirmary, and food storage areas were destroyed by fire.
“The government expresses relief at the restoration of calm, regrets the tragic events, and extends condolences to the victims’ families. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided.”
Makala Central Prison is Congo’s largest penitentiary and has previously experienced jailbreaks, including a notable incident in 2017 when a religious sect attack led to the escape of dozens of inmates.
