Yesterday, close to 1000 prisoners escaped from Kasapa prison on the outskirts of Lubumbashi. It is reported that the attackers were successful in their aim of liberating a former Mai Mai militia leader whilst many other prisoners took advantage of the unrest and escaped also. The incident took place at approximately 10.30am on Wednesday. Two men were killed and 2 injured during the attack. Approximately 150 escapees have been recaptured, the others including the Mai Mai commander remain on the run. The prison is thought to hold up to 1200 prisoners at any one time. The conditions are poor and overcrowded with prisoners relying on family, friends, Church groups and other charities to provide them with food and clothing. A curfew was put in place in Lubumbashi last night. Katanga is one of the most politically calm of the Congolese provinces, this situation may challenge that stability. This incident follows increasing tension in the capital, Kinshasa due to accusations by one of the opposition leaders of fraudulent practice during the voter registration period. Last week an attack also took place on one of the opposition party offices and an opposition TV station in Kinshasa. Presidential elections are due to take place on November 28th 2011.
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