Deadly Jailbreak Attempt in Democratic Republic of Congo’s Capital Leaves Several Dead

An attempted jailbreak at Bala prison in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, led to an unspecified number of deaths, according to reports. The incident, which took place in the country’s largest prison, prompted the Justice Minister to suspend inmate transfers and initiate an investigation into the attempted mass breakout. The details surrounding the event remain vague, with officials yet to disclose a death toll. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing bodies, highlighting the dire conditions within the facility, known for severe overcrowding and inhumane conditions. This event underscores ongoing challenges within the DRC’s penal system and the urgent need for reforms.

• Several people killed in attempted jailbreak at Bala prison in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Justice Minister suspends transfer of inmates to Bala prison, with streets around the site cordoned off.
• Witnesses describe hearing gunshots overnight and seeing police vehicles transporting bodies.
• Government opens investigation into what it describes as an attempted mass breakout.
• Details of the incident, including the death toll, remain unclear.
• Rights organizations report dozens may have been shot dead.
• Prison conditions are notoriously poor, with severe overcrowding and reports of inmates dying from starvation and suffocation.
• Justice Minister had recently promised to address the issue of overcrowding in the prison.

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