Mass Prison Breaks in Eastern DRC Fuel Panic as Thousands of Inmates Escape Amidst Rebel Advance

Mass Prison Escapes in Eastern DRC Cause Panic

The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has led to mass prison escapes, causing widespread panic and insecurity among the population. The escapes, involving thousands of inmates, occurred during the rapid advance of the M23 rebel group, which captured two major cities in the region.

Escapes Amidst Chaos

As the M23 rebels approached and entered areas of eastern DRC, security guards abandoned their posts at prisons, creating opportunities for escape. Over 4,000 prisoners escaped from Munzenze prison in Goma on the night of January 27th, as the rebels entered the city. Subsequent escapes occurred in Bukavu, Kabare, and Kalemie central prison, with the most recent incident taking place on February 19th.

Concerns over Public Safety

The escaped prisoners, convicted of crimes including rape, murder, and participation in insurrection movements, pose a significant threat to public safety. Security analysts fear that some may seek revenge against their victims, leading to further violence and instability.

Witness Accounts

An escaper from Goma prison described the chaotic scene, jumping out of a window and stepping on corpses as he fled. Residents of Goma and Bukavu reported seeing escaped inmates committing crimes, raising concerns about the increasing crime rate.

Government Response

Police stations in Goma and Bukavu ceased operation after the cities were captured. The rebel coalition, Alliance Fleuve Congo, has promised to build and rehabilitate detention facilities. However, with the increase in crime, some residents are taking the law into their own hands, resorting to mob justice.

Escalating Conflict

The M23's advance is the worst escalation in the decades-long conflict in eastern DRC. The conflict has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in the region. The rebel group, among over 100 armed factions fighting against Congolese forces, claims to protect the interests of minorities. However, the DRC, the UN, and other countries accuse Rwanda of supporting the militia, which Rwanda denies.