Fatshimetrie, September 17, 2024 – The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) announces a thorough investigation to identify cases of human rights violations during the recent escape attempt at Makala Central Prison in Kinshasa. This announcement comes after the events that occurred on the night of September 1 to 2, 2024, when prisoners attempted to escape, causing material damage and serious violations of prisoners’ rights.
The CNDH mission aims to investigate within Makala Central Prison, as well as to examine hospital and morgue reports regarding the victims of this escape attempt. The Commission’s experts will be tasked with identifying cases of human rights violations, while seeking to understand the circumstances surrounding this aborted escape.
The CNDH’s involvement in this case demonstrates the importance of protecting the fundamental rights of prisoners, even in exceptional situations such as escape attempts. By strongly condemning the rapes suffered by female prisoners during this incident, the Commission is sending a strong message against all forms of abuse and violence in prisons.
The role of justice is also crucial in this case, with the Kinshasa-Ngaliema Garrison Court currently examining the two groups of prisoners involved in the escape attempt. The presentation of a list of 244 female prisoners claiming to have been raped during this incident highlights the scale of the abuses committed and the need for an appropriate judicial response.
This case highlights the challenges facing prison systems in the DRC, particularly in protecting the rights of prisoners and preventing abuse. It is essential that concrete measures are taken to guarantee the safety and dignity of those in detention, as well as to ensure that justice is done for victims of human rights violations.