Hundreds of Terrorists, Criminals, and Drug Traffickers Escape from Niger’s Koutoukalé Prison

A violent mutiny at the Koutoukalé prison near Niamey, Niger Republic, on Thursday led to the escape of hundreds of inmates, including terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers.

Gunshots and explosions rocked the facility midday, overpowering guards and enabling the inmates to flee with weapons and vehicles. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as inmates breached armored gates, barbed wire, and trenches, gaining control of the prison before security forces could respond effectively.

Previous attempts by terrorists to attack the prison had been successfully thwarted, underscoring the severity of the situation. The Interior Minister issued a radio broadcast to all governors, confirming the escape and urging local leaders to report any suspicious individuals. In response, a curfew has been imposed in the Tillabéri region, and heightened vigilance is in place across the River Niger region.