09 Aug 2017 | 09:30 AM UTC
Côte d'Ivoire: Attack at Abidjan courthouse August 8
20 detainees escape from Abidjan courthouse on August 8 following assault on police officers; security operation ongoing
Event
Twenty detainees reportedly escaped from the Abidjan Courthouse located in the Plateau district on Tuesday, August 8. The detainees were assisted by a group of unidentified gunmen who entered the courthouse and assaulted several police officers, allowing the 20 detainees to flee.
Extra security forces have been deployed throughout the city as part of the ongoing manhunt and an investigation is underway.
Context
The security situation in Côte d'Ivoire has been tense since the beginning of the year, due to various mutinies carried out by soldiers and police and a series of attacks on police stations.
On August 6, five prisoners escaped from the Gagnoa prison, located in central Côte d'Ivoire.
Advice
Individuals present in Abidjan are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.