The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo reported that at least 129 individuals perished while attempting to flee from the central Makala prison in the capital, Kinshasa, on Monday morning. Authorities have stated that the situation is now contained.
In a statement released on X on Tuesday, Interior Minister Shabani Lukoo disclosed that a fire had erupted in the prison's administrative building, food storage areas, and a hospital. Lukoo also mentioned that 59 people were injured.
"The large-scale escape attempt at Makala central prison led to fatalities and substantial property damage," Lukoo stated in a video message. Prior to this, a prison official confirmed that no inmates had managed to escape, noting that those who attempted to do so were killed. The government is currently investigating the incident, which took place around 2am on Monday. Prisoners reported hearing intense gunfire and noises from outside the prison.
