Four Dead and More Than 50 Inmates Escape During Prison Break in Bulungu

Bulungu, July 13, 2026 - At least four people were killed and more than 50 inmates escaped from the central prison of Bulungu, in Kwilu province, following an attempted mass breakout on Sunday evening. The incident occurred when prisoners reportedly forced open the main entrance of the facility around 8:00 p.m. Security forces fired warning shots in an attempt to stop the escape, resulting in the deaths of three inmates and one police officer, according to local sources. Out of the 63 detainees who escaped, only a small number have so far been recaptured. Local civil society reported that five inmates were initially found and arrested, while prison officials later indicated that only three had been recovered. The escaped detainees included 58 men, five women, and one infant. According to local authorities, only eight of the escapees had already been convicted, while the majority were awaiting trial after spending several months in detention. The police officer suspected of using his weapon during the incident has reportedly been arrested and is facing legal proceedings. Local civil society organizations have called for an investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the escape and the deaths. They also renewed calls for urgent improvements to prison conditions in Bulungu. Prison officials pointed to the poor state of the facility, warning that overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient resources continue to affect detainees’ living conditions. Caroline Musilipu, secretary of Bulungu Central Prison, urged authorities to build a modern correctional facility capable of meeting the needs of detainees from the surrounding territories. The prison, which serves several territories in Kwilu province, has long faced challenges related to food supplies, healthcare, and operating resources. Authorities have previously raised concerns over the lack of adequate support for inmates and prison administration.