Congo Releases 600 Inmates to Address Severe Prison Overcrowding

The move comes after a deadly jailbreak and mounting criticism over inhumane conditions at Makala Central Prison.

Justice Minister Constant Mutamba announced the release during a ceremony at Makala Central Prison in Kinshasa.
Makala prison, designed for 1,500 inmates, currently holds over 12,000, with most awaiting trial.
A recent attempted jailbreak resulted in at least 129 deaths, with some reports suggesting over 200 fatalities.
Inmates and activists have decried the prison's deplorable conditions, including inadequate food, water, and medical care.
Authorities plan to release all severely ill inmates starting Sunday and are considering more releases of minors.