Congo Frees 600 Prisoners to Ease Overcrowding

In a bid to address the severe overcrowding in Congo's prisons, 600 inmates were released from Makala Central Prison. Justice Minister Constant Mutamba announced the move at a ceremony. Plans for a new prison are underway as facilities face dire conditions, with overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate food and medical care.

Authorities in Congo have released 600 prisoners from the country's primary penitentiary, Makala Central Prison, in an effort to alleviate severe overcrowding.

Justice Minister Constant Mutamba made the announcement during a ceremony held at the prison in Kinshasha, Congo's capital. Makala prison, built for 1,500 inmates, currently holds over 12,000.

Earlier this month, a tragic jailbreak attempt resulted in 129 deaths. The prison, plagued by poor conditions, has inmates facing issues like inadequate food and sanitation, sparking significant unrest. Mutamba has also emphasized the need to examine and release more minors and severely ill inmates.

(With inputs from agencies.)