04 Sep 2017 | 01:20 PM UTC
Côte d'Ivoire: Attack in Songon and prison break in Katiola Sept 2-3
Attack on security forces in Songon Sept 2 as well as large-scale prison break in Katiola Sept 3; security situation remains tense
Event
On Saturday, September 2, between 22:00 and midnight (local time) an attack on security forces in Songon, located less than 20 km (12 mi) from the economic capital Abdijan, resulted in one officer wounded. The assailants reportedly stole weapons and a vehicle.
Additionally, 96 inmates escaped from a prison in Katiola on Sunday, September 3, between 05:00 and 06:00 - the latest in a string of recent jail breaks across the country. The inmates reportedly escaped through the roof of their cells to reach the main gate and flee the premises.
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.
In early August, five prisoners escaped from the Gagnoa prison, located in central Côte d'Ivoire. Two days later, 20 detainees escaped from cells at the Abdijan Courthouse after clashes with police.
Advice
Individuals present in Côte d'Ivoire are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.
