Congo Releases 600 Inmates to Alleviate Prison Overcrowding

Move follows deadly jailbreak and overcrowding at Makala Central Prison
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Sep 21, 2024 3:37 PM CDT
Congo Releases 600 Inmates to Alleviate Prison Overcrowding
Some of the 600 prisoners released from Democratic Republic of the Congo's capital Kinshasa's Makala Central Prison react Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.   (AP Photo/Samy Ntumba Shambuyi)

Authorities in Congo have released 600 prisoners from Makala Central Prison in an effort to address severe overcrowding. The facility currently holds over 12,000 inmates despite its 1,500-person capacity. Many of those freed on Saturday expressed gratitude for their release, noting the stark and dire living conditions within the prison. This release follows a catastrophic attempted jailbreak earlier this month, resulting in 129 deaths and multiple rapes.

Emmanuel Adu Cole, a notable prison rights activist, condemned the lack of action by authorities despite ongoing complaints about insufficient beds, food, and sanitation within the prison. Among those freed were around 10 minors; Justice Minister Constant Mutamba has called for a comprehensive review of the cases of all 300 minors held there. Munganga Mungendo, a 16-year-old detainee, expressed relief and hope to resume his education post-release. Mutamba said all severely ill inmates will be released starting Sunday. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X