Over 150 Female Inmates Raped and Burned Alive in Goma Prison Attack, UN Reports

A Night of Terror in Goma Prison

The attack took place when armed militants stormed the prison late at night, overpowering the limited security personnel on duty. Witnesses and survivors reported that the assailants systematically targeted the women’s section, subjecting the inmates to horrific sexual violence before setting the facility ablaze.

A survivor, speaking to UN investigators, described the horror: “They dragged us from our cells, and there was no mercy. We were beaten, raped, and those who resisted were shot. Then, they locked many inside and set fire to the prison.”

Who Was Behind the Attack?

While no group has officially claimed responsibility, officials suspect the involvement of rebel factions operating in the eastern DRC, where armed groups frequently clash over territory and resources. The region has long suffered from violence fueled by political instability, ethnic tensions, and the presence of dozens of militias, including the M23 rebels and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

The Congolese government has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, with President Félix Tshisekedi condemning the “barbaric act” and ordering a full investigation.

UN and International Response

The United Nations Human Rights Office has called the incident a war crime, urging the international community to take swift action. Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated:

“The scale of brutality in this attack is beyond comprehension. We demand an immediate and transparent investigation, and those responsible must face justice.”

The African Union (AU) and human rights organizations have also condemned the attack, urging the Congolese government to strengthen prison security and address the ongoing conflict and lawlessness in the region.

Why Is Eastern DRC So Volatile?

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has endured decades of conflict, particularly in its eastern provinces, where armed groups operate with impunity. The instability is driven by:

• Competition for resources (gold, coltan, and rare minerals)
• Ethnic conflicts and political rivalries
• Weak law enforcement and government control
• Foreign interventions and regional tensions

The prison attack in Goma is yet another example of the systematic violence against women in conflict zones, with human rights activists emphasizing the need for better protection for vulnerable populations.

What’s Next?

The Congolese military has been deployed to increase security in Goma, and authorities have promised to pursue those responsible. However, many remain skeptical about the government’s ability to prevent further atrocities, given the deep-rooted instability in the region.

The UN is calling for humanitarian aid to assist the injured survivors and help rebuild the prison. Meanwhile, activists are urging the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the attack as a crime against humanity.

As the world watches, survivors and families of the victims are left grappling with unspeakable trauma, hoping that justice will be served in a nation struggling to break free from the cycle of violence.