Congolese Red Cross and Civil Protection workers unload bodies of those killed in recent Goma clashes for burial on February 3, 2025. CNN
More than 150 female inmates were raped and burned to death after male prisoners set fire to a prison in Goma, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), during a mass escape last week. A United Nations spokesperson confirmed the tragic incident, describing it as one of the worst cases of violence in the region in recent years.
According to UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Seif Magango, at least 165 female prisoners were assaulted by escaping male inmates. Most of them did not survive the fire that followed. Only a small group of nine to thirteen women managed to escape, but all of them had been subjected to sexual violence. The information was provided by a judicial source in the DRC, and while the UN has not independently verified the report, Magango stated that they consider it credible.
The prison break occurred on January 27, as the M23 rebel alliance clashed with Congolese forces in Goma. The fighting created an opportunity for inmates at Muzenze prison to attempt an escape. Some of the male prisoners were killed by security forces, but more than 4,000 managed to flee. The prison was left completely destroyed, with no detainees remaining.
The DRC government has strongly condemned the horrific crimes. Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya confirmed that 165 women had been raped and described the attack as a "barbaric crime." Officials are now investigating the full extent of the violence and are working to locate the escaped prisoners.
Sexual violence has been a recurring issue in the DRC, especially during conflicts. The United Nations Human Rights Office reported on Friday that there have been additional cases of sexual violence involving both rebel groups and government forces. Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence revealed that 52 women were allegedly raped by Congolese soldiers in South Kivu, with some victims reportedly assaulted by multiple attackers. The UN is currently verifying these claims.
Meanwhile, the M23 rebel group, which claims to have taken control of Goma, has called for a humanitarian ceasefire. The ongoing clashes between the rebels and government forces have resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths in recent weeks.
The situation in Goma remains tense, with thousands of people displaced due to the fighting. The DRC government, along with international organizations, is facing increasing pressure to restore order, protect civilians, and address the growing humanitarian crisis.
