A tragic incident unfolded in the Democratic Republic of Congo when an attempted prison break at Makala prison in the capital, Kinshasa, led to the loss of 129 lives. The event took place on Monday night, sparking chaos within the prison walls.

Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that 24 inmates were shot dead by authorities trying to regain control. The situation worsened as many others suffocated or were trampled to death amidst the panic.

In the midst of the turmoil, some female prisoners were reportedly assaulted. The chaos also left 59 individuals injured, with authorities warning that the number of victims could increase as more details emerge. Despite the initial outbreak of violence, the police and army managed to bring the situation under control.

The aftermath was grim, with significant property damage reported. Key parts of the prison, including administrative buildings, the infirmary, and the food depot, were completely destroyed by fire. This tragic event is yet another reminder of the frequent prison breaks that plague the conflict-ridden region of Central Africa, where large-scale escapes are all too common.