Congo: 129 killed in attempted prison break

In a harrowing incident in the Democratic Republic of Congo, at least 129 people are feared dead following a dramatic prison break attempt. The chaos erupted at Makala Prison in Kinshasa, where Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani revealed the dire aftermath on Tuesday. Authorities intervened, shooting 24 inmates, while others tragically suffocated or were trampled to death during the turmoil.

The disturbance, which occurred Monday night, also saw reports of sexual violence against female prisoners amidst the pandemonium. At least 59 individuals sustained injuries, and extensive property damage was reported, with administrative buildings, the infirmary, and the food depot all destroyed by fire.

Shabani noted that these figures are preliminary, as the police and military worked to regain control. Prison breaks are not uncommon in the conflict-ridden region, where mass escapes by inmates have become a frequent occurrence.