129 killed as inmates attempt jailbreak in Congo

At least 129 people have been killed in an attempted jailbreak from the Makala Central Prison in Congo.

Gunfire reportedly began from inside the prison at around midnight on Sunday into Monday morning.

Videos circulating online show bodies lying on the floor, many of them with visible injuries.

Other videos also show inmates carrying people, who appeared to be dead, into a vehicle.

There are reports that most died from a stampede.

Announcing the number of casualties in a statement on X, Jacquemin Shabani, Congolese interior minister, said the escape attempt led to deaths and significant material damage.

He added that apart from those killed, 59 were injured and taken into care by the government, while some women were raped.

“On the instructions of the High Hierarchy, I have called a crisis meeting with the heads of the defense and security services,” the statement reads.

“The provisional toll is 129 dead, including 24 by gunfire, after warning, the other victims having died by jostling or suffocation.

“The administrative buildings, the registry, the infirmary, and the food depots were destroyed by fire.

“The Government is pleased with the return to calm, deplores these tragic events, and offers its condolences to the families of the victims.

“Investigations are continuing and the public will be informed.”

Makala is Congo’s largest penitentiary. The facility has recorded previous jailbreaks, including in 2017 when an attack by a religious sect freed dozens.