Article: The underside of the spectacular escape of the accused in the trial of the September 2009 massacre in Conakry
Last weekend, the city of Conakry was shaken by a spectacular escape. Four of the accused in the September 28, 2009 massacre trial escaped from the city’s central house. Among them was Moussa Dadis Camara, the former head of the military junta that governed Guinea at the time. But this escape did not pass without a trace, and questions about the circumstances and complicity involved begin to emerge.
According to available information, the three of the four escaped defendants, including Moussa Dadis Camara, were quickly caught and returned to prison the same day of their escape. Dadis Camara’s lawyer assures that his client was taken without his knowledge, suggesting that he was manipulated by other people. However, the precise details of the escape and potential complicity still remain unclear.
Investigations revealed that agents stationed at the central house let in the commando who facilitated the escape. Drastic measures were taken in response, with the removal of all people identified as having participated in this escape, whether they belong to the army, the gendarmerie or prison officers. Coronthie prison is now placed under high security with an increased presence of defense and security forces.
Guinean authorities say the escape will not compromise the continuation of the ongoing trial. They emphasize that the truth about the events of September 28 must be established and that this must be done within the framework of a fair and transparent trial. However, the incident highlights flaws in Guinea’s prison system and raises questions about the effectiveness of security measures in place.
This spectacular escape also recalls the importance of national reconciliation in Guinea. The trial of the September 2009 massacre must not only serve to punish the guilty, but also to allow Guineans to face their painful history and to create a sense of justice and reconciliation between all parties involved.
It remains to be hoped that the ongoing investigations will shed light on this escape and determine responsibilities. More than ever, it is essential to strengthen the Guinean prison system and guarantee the security and transparency of trials. The path towards reconciliation and justice in Guinea is strewn with pitfalls, but it is imperative not to relax efforts to achieve a more just and peaceful society.