Gunfire, Casualties Reported in Failed DR Congo Jailbreak

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo expressed sorrow over a “loss of lives” following an attempted jailbreak at Makala Prison, the largest correctional facility in the country, on Monday.

Details about the attempted escape from the prison in Kinshasa remain unclear.

Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, who is currently in Beijing with President Felix Tshisekedi for the China-Africa summit, assured that security services are on-site and that the situation is under control.

Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani reported casualties and injuries, as well as significant material damage, but did not provide specific details. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire throughout the night, but authorities have not released numbers or information about any successful escapes.

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AFP journalists observed police sealing off streets leading to the prison. Daddi Soso, a local electrician, recounted hearing gunshots from around 1:00 AM to 5:00 AM and reported seeing law enforcement vehicles transporting bodies.

Justice Minister Constant Mutamba announced on X that investigations are underway to identify and punish those responsible for the sabotage.

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He also indicated that prisoner transfers would be suspended until further notice.

Makala Prison, designed to hold 1,500 inmates, currently houses between 14,000 and 15,000 prisoners. In 2017, over 4,000 prisoners escaped from the facility following a nighttime attack by armed men.

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