Burundi prison fire kills 38 inmates, injures dozens more - vice president
A journalist, policeman and a soldier observe the damage in front of the main prison after the fire, in Gitega, Burundi, December 7, 2021 in this picture obtained by Reuters. SOS MEDIAS BURUNDI via REUTERS
At least 38 inmates were killed and dozens more injured in a fire on Tuesday at the main prison in Burundi's capital Gitega, the country's vice president said.
Twelve died of asphyxia as they tried to flee the burning buildings and 26 died of severe injuries, Vice President Prosper Bazombanza told reporters at the Gitega Prison after the fire.
He did not say what might have caused the blaze. Two local residents said fire broke out before dawn.
Injured people are evacuated in a police pick-up in front of the main prison after the fire, in Gitega, Burundi, December 7, 2021 in this picture obtained by Reuters. SOS MEDIAS BURUNDI via REUTERS
Many of those who died were elderly prisoners, a resident who arrived at the prison as the fire was still raging told Reuters. He said he saw bodies being taken by ambulance from the scene.
A fire broke out in August at the same prison that authorities said was caused by a electrical problem. There were no casualties.
Police, military and administrative personnel wait for the arrival of the Vice-President Prosper Bazombanza in front of the main prison after the fire, in Gitega, Burundi, December 7, 2021 in this picture obtained by Reuters
(Reporting by Nairobi newsroom,; Writing by Maggie Fick; Editing by Jon Boyle and Angus MacSwan)
Government officials and security officers gather at the main prison where at least 38 inmates were killed and dozens more injured in a fire in Gitega, Burundi December 7, 2021. REUTERS/StringerBurundi's Vice President Prosper Bazombanza visits the main prison where at least 38 inmates were killed and dozens more injured in a fire in Gitega, Burundi December 7, 2021. REUTERS/StringerBurundian security officers gather at the main prison where at least 38 inmates were killed and dozens more injured in a fire in Gitega, Burundi December 7, 2021. REUTERS/Stringer
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