Hundreds of terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers have reportedly escaped from Koutoukalé prison, located near Niamey, the capital city of the Niger Republic.
According to reports, the prison break occurred on Thursday, leading to a violent confrontation. Overwhelmed guards allowed inmates to escape with weapons and vehicles.
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An eyewitness said that gunshots and explosions were heard from inside the prison around midday, which prompted a swift response from security forces.
However, the inmates had already seized control of the prison, breaking through armored gates, barbed wire, and trenches.
The Interior Minister reportedly 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.
