VIDEO: Mass escape from Congo prison

A mass escape occurred at a prison in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, after M23 fighters reportedly entered the facility.

The prison, which housed around 3,000 inmates, was completely destroyed by a fire during the escape, with multiple deaths reported, according to local security sources.

M23 rebels claimed to have captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, after fierce fighting with the Congolese army, AP reported.

The city, located in the mineral-rich North Kivu province, has been a key hub for both humanitarian aid and security operations.

The rebel advance sparked panic among Goma’s 2 million residents, leading to mass displacement.

Congo’s government accused Rwanda of supporting the rebels, a claim Rwanda has denied.

The situation has escalated tensions between the two nations, with the M23 group seizing control of the city for the second time, the first being in 2012.