Deadly Prison Break in Chad Leaves Three Dead, Over 100 Fugitives

Edition : Africa Eye

More than 100 inmates escaped from a prison near Mongo in central Chad last Friday night following a violent shootout, leaving at least three dead and three injured, officials confirmed yesterday. The breakout occurred after detainees reportedly overpowered guards, seized weapons, and clashed with authorities during the chaos. Hassan Souleymane Adam, Secretary-General of Guéra province, confirmed the casualties and described the incident as a “major security breach.”

A local administrative source, speaking anonymously, revealed that prisoners revolted around 9:18 p.m., vandalizing, the facility’s administrative office to access firearms. During the exchange of gunfire, the regional governor was injured while responding to the scene. The source added that all 132 escapees were imprisoned for non-political crimes and had previously filed complaints about inadequate food supplies before the rebellion.

Chad’s Justice Minister Youssouf Tom acknowledged the incident but declined to provide further details until conducting an on-site assessment in Mongo. Authorities have launched a manhunt to recapture the fugitives amid growing concerns over prison conditions and safety protocols in the region. Investigations into the escape are ongoing.