Tajikistan: At least 32 people killed during prison riot in Vahdat May 19

Event

A riot broke out at a maximum-security prison in the city of Vahdat, located approximately 25 km (16 mi) east of the capital Dushanbe, on the night (local time) of Sunday, May 19. Prisoners convicted of being tied to the Islamic State (IS) reportedly took a number of guards and other prisoners hostage with knives. Security forces were deployed into the prison, killing at least 29 inmates, while three guards also died in the fighting. The authorities regained control of the prison by Monday, May 20. A heightened security presence in Vahdat is possible in the coming hours and days as the situation normalizes. An investigation into the riot is ongoing.

Advice

Individuals in Vahdat are advised to monitor the situation and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.