Hundreds of terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers escaped from Niger’s Koutoukalé prison during a violent mutiny near Niamey.
Security expert Zagazola Makama reports that a violent prison mutiny on Thursday freed hundreds of terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers.
According to him, “A fierce riot had erupted, overpowering the security personnel, and allowing the inmates to seize arms and vehicles.
“Witnesses said they heard gunfire and explosions around the afternoon time, which prompted a swift response from security forces.
“However, by the time they arrived, the inmates had already taken control of the prison, breaching armored gates, barbed wire, and trenches.”
The escape has raised serious questions about the security of the prison, which has previously thwarted two jihadist attempts to free comrades.
He revealed that an investigation is underway to determine how the inmates were able to procure weapons and overpower their guards.
“The Interior Minister has issued a radio message to all governors, confirming the escape and urging village chiefs and religious leaders to report any suspicious individuals.
“A curfew has been declared in the Tillabéri region, and the entire River Niger region is on high alert.”
He further revealed that authorities have launched a massive manhunt to recapture the escaped prisoners, following a catastrophic security failure at the Koutoukalé prison.
Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to the authorities, as a widespread search operation is underway to apprehend the dangerous individuals who escaped from the Koutoukalé prison.
