DRC: Dozens killed during prison break in Kinshasa early Sept. 2 /update 2

Officials will likely maintain an increased security posture near the Malaka prison in Kinshasa in the coming days following an attempted prison break overnight Sept. 1-2. The Interior Ministry has indicated that the attempted escape left 129 prisoners dead and 59 injured due to jostling, suffocation, and gunfire from security forces; some female detainees were reportedly sexually assaulted. Several buildings were also set ablaze. Officials have announced that no prisoners escaped.

Increased security measures around the building and the ongoing investigation may cause localized travel delays in the area. Families of prisoners and humanitarian organizations may also assemble in the vicinity to denounce the high casualty toll. Police could disperse unruly gatherings.