JAILBREAK AT MONROVIA CENTRAL PRISON

UNCLAS MONROVIA 000977

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ASEC CASC PHUM PGOV LI
SUBJECT: JAILBREAK AT MONROVIA CENTRAL PRISON


1. A reported 135 prisoners escaped from the Monrovia Central
Prison (MCP) December 1. Liberia National Police (LNP) immediately
set up roadblocks and searched neighborhoods around the MCP and up
to 68 prisoners have reportedly been recaptured. The LNP Emergency
Response Unit has been deployed as well. The MCP is located less
than one mile from the Embassy compound.


2. There is no immediate threat towards the Embassy or the resident
Amcit population. RSO sent out a message advising Mission personnel
avoid the area surrounding the MCP, Barclay Training Center, and UN
Drive in the vicinity of Gurley and Center Streets. RSO also
requested that the LNP detachment at the Embassy be increased. The
consular section has sent out a warden message with similar
information. The Embassy does not plan to take any other steps at
this time, but will monitor the situation closely.


3. According to several UNMIL sources, a disturbance began when
prisoners began protesting not receiving speedy court dates. The
prisoners then pushed through the Nepalese Formed Police Unit (FPU)
guarding the prison gate to escape. According to the sources, the
FPU used teargas and fired warning shots.


4. Comment: The MCP is severely overcrowded, holding four times
its capacity. About 800 prisoners are held there, with 93% of those
in pre-trial detention.

THOMAS-GREENFIELD