KINSHASA, Congo (September 4, 2024) — A chaotic and deadly attempted jailbreak at Congo’s Makala Central Prison has resulted in the deaths of 129 individuals, according to official reports. The incident, which took place early Monday, involved a mix of gunfire, a stampede, and violence, leaving many injured and causing significant unrest within the overcrowded facility.
Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemin Shabani reported that 24 inmates were shot by guards during the escape attempt, which was meant to serve as a deterrent. Additionally, 59 people were injured, and some incidents of sexual violence were reported, though details remain sparse. The violence was compounded by a stampede, the causes of which are still unclear.
Prominent prison rights activist Emmanuel Adu Cole provided a higher death toll, estimating over 200 fatalities based on videos and inmate accounts. The accuracy of these numbers has not been independently confirmed, but they highlight the severe nature of the situation.
Makala Central Prison, the largest in Congo with a capacity for 1,500, currently houses over 12,000 inmates, mostly awaiting trial. The facility, known for its dire conditions including severe overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate food, has seen multiple escape attempts in the past. The conditions have long been criticized by human rights organizations and activists.
Eyewitnesses reported that gunfire began around midnight and continued into the morning. Military vehicles and local police responded quickly, blocking roads and controlling the area. Videos circulating online depict bodies and injured inmates being carried away, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Deputy Justice Minister Mbemba Kabuya stated that the escape was orchestrated by inmates from within the prison, and an investigation is underway. Meanwhile, rights groups and opposition leaders are calling for an independent probe into the incident, accusing the government of excessive force and a cover-up. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu condemned the event as “summary executions,” demanding accountability.
The prison’s dire conditions have been exacerbated by severe overcrowding, leading to frequent protests and calls for reform. In response, Justice Minister Constant Mutamba has labeled the jailbreak as “premeditated sabotage” and promised a stern reaction. Authorities have pledged to halt transfers from Makala and build a new prison to alleviate the overcrowding issues.
President Felix Tshisekedi, currently on an official visit to China, has yet to comment on the incident. The government’s handling of the crisis and its commitment to addressing prison conditions will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
