Friday, July 12, 2024 - A jailbreak has occurred at Koutoukalé Prison in the Niger Republic, leading to the escape of numerous terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers.
According to reports from Reuters, the
escaped inmates include detainees from Niger as well as members of armed groups
linked to al Qaeda, Islamic State, and Boko Haram.
Security expert Zaga Zola stated that
the prison, located near the capital city of Niamey, was the site of a violent
mutiny on Thursday, July 11. The rebellion overwhelmed the guards, allowing
inmates to escape with weapons and vehicles.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing
gunshots and explosions inside the prison around midday, prompting a swift
response from security forces. However, the inmates managed to gain control,
breaking through armored gates, barbed wire, and trenches.
The prison had previously thwarted
two jihadist attempts to free their fighters. An investigation is currently
underway to determine how the inmates acquired weapons and overpowered the
guards.
Niger's Interior Minister has
confirmed the escape of some inmates via a radio message to all governors. He
urged village chiefs and religious leaders to report any suspicious
individuals.
In response, a curfew has been
declared in the Tillabéri region, and the entire River Niger region is on high
alert.
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