On the night of On Wednesday 10 August 2022, heavily armed militia and rebels attacked the Kakwangura prison in Butembo (North Kivu) in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. During this operation, at least 700 detainees, including death row inmates and armed group fighters, have escaped. They are being actively sought by the army.
It was 2am when a group of more than 80 heavily armed men burst into the Kakwangura civil prison, according to the spokesman for the armed forces in the region, Captain Anthony Mwalushay, who said the attackers had come from Beni territory. This attack was violent and very fast. After fifteen minutes of operation, the assailants broke down the prison doors and opened the cells. This was followed by an exchange of fire between the assailants and about ten police officers. The prisoners took advantage of this opportunity to escape. It is true that the prison is located in one of the most secure areas of the city, but the cells were already empty before the arrival of the army, which admits to having intervened late.
Escape, loss of life and popular vindictiveness caused by the attacks.
According to the army’s assessment, two policemen on guard duty and one assailant were killed. There are also several wounded among the attackers. In addition, the latter took advantage of the attack to loot the inhabitants, taking goats, sheep and chickens with them. The population did not give in and managed to lynch three of the attackers before the others withdrew from the town. About 817 prisoners escaped in the attack, according to the army. But during the day 115 were taken back. The authorities say they have launched operations to capture the 700 fugitives.
A double objective targeted by the assailantsattacks.
According to information provided by the army, the attack was mounted and carried out by ADF fighters with some reinforcements from local militiamen. According to the military authorities, the rebels came to free one of their companions and twelve wives of their commanders who were languishing in the dungeons. These prisoners were about to be transferred to other provinces. The other objective, according to the army, is recruitment. ADF fighters take advantage of such operations to make captives adhere to their doctrine in order to strengthen their ranks.
Attacks and break-ins at Butembo prison are becoming repetitive as in 2017 there were several. These attacks occur either in Butembo, Goma, Bukavu or Kasai. In order not to repeat this situation, the national deputy, Juvénal Munubo, pleaded for a reform of the prison system.
Charbel Ahouandjinou (stag).
