Colombia: 49 prisoners killed during an escape attempt

At least 49 prisoners were killed and dozens injured on Tuesday during an attempted escape from a prison in Tulua, in southwestern Colombia, an administration spokesman told AFP.

Colombia: 49 prisoners killed during an escape attempt

At least 49 prisoners were killed and dozens injured on Tuesday during an attempted escape from a prison in Tulua, in southwestern Colombia, an administration spokesman told AFP. Colombian penitentiary (Inpec).

"At the moment, we have 49 dead, but this is a preliminary report that may evolve," said the spokesman.

The tragedy occurred during an escape attempt which would have been followed by a fire, according to Caracol radio citing the authorities, who evoke "more than 40 injured".

Outgoing President Ivan Duque confirmed the tragedy, without giving an assessment. “I have given instructions to advance research that will shed light on this terrible situation. My solidarity with the families of the victims,” he said on Twitter.

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