84 pretrial detainees released from Kangbayi prison in Beni to ease overcrowding

Forty civilians, 40 soldiers and four police officers were released from Kangbayi prison in Beni on October 14, 2026, following a decision by the Beni military garrison prosecutor’s office. The release applies to people facing minor charges or awaiting trial for extended periods; the soldiers must report to the Sukola 1 Grand North operational sector headquarters before returning to their units. Before the releases, the prison held 2,395 detainees, including 88 women, despite having capacity for 250, and remains overcrowded. MONUSCO’s Joint Human Rights Office had urged military judicial authorities to address deteriorating detention conditions and recurring deaths.