Mutiny Erupts in Mayotte's Majicavo Prison Amidst Overcrowding Crisis
A serious mutiny broke out at the Majicavo prison in Mayotte on Saturday, resulting in a prison officer sustaining a slight injury. The incident, which occurred around 3 p.m. local time, required the swift intervention of the elite GIGN forces to restore order and ensure the safety of prison staff and detainees. According to Vincent Pardoux, the FO regional secretary for Réunion and Mayotte, the situation escalated during a critical time when approximately one hundred detainees were being returned to their cells, a moment described as "very sensitive."
During the chaos, prisoners attacked a senior officer, seizing his keys and transceiver. Although the officer was slightly injured in the forearm, he managed to find shelter. However, another guard was taken hostage in the exercise yard, prompting immediate action from the GIGN and mobile gendarmerie forces. Their rapid response facilitated the release of the hostage and ensured the safety of other officers who had barricaded themselves in detention offices. Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media depicted smoke rising from the prison grounds, indicating the severity of the situation.
Overcrowding Crisis in French Prisons
This incident highlights the ongoing overcrowding crisis within the French prison system, particularly in the Majicavo detention center. As of August 1, overcrowding levels soared to over 245%, a significant concern voiced by prison staff and union representatives. Vincent Pardoux expressed shock at the events, emphasizing that the staff had been aware of the heightened tensions within the facility. The overall prison density in France stands at 126.4%, but this figure spikes to 151.6% in remand centers where individuals await trial. In Majicavo, the density is reported to be around 177%, exacerbating the already strained conditions.
In response to the crisis, the Prison Administration announced the establishment of a psychological support cell for affected staff members and pledged to enhance security measures at the facility. Additionally, a project for a second prison to alleviate congestion was announced by the Ministry of Justice in 2022; however, no suitable land has yet been identified for construction.
Calls for Immediate Action
The events at Majicavo prison have reignited calls for urgent action to address the overcrowding issue within French prisons. With the situation becoming increasingly untenable, union representatives are advocating for immediate reforms and improvements in prison conditions to prevent future incidents. The need for a systematic approach to prison management and infrastructure development has never been more critical as authorities navigate the complexities of maintaining safety and security in overcrowded facilities.
