Inmates Riot at Jail in Congo Capital

KINSHASA, Congo -- A riot broke out Thursday at the capital's main jail after authorities tightened restrictions following the escape of a dozen inmates convicted of involvement in the assassination of former President Laurent Kabila, prisoners said.

Nearby residents reported hearing several gunshots echoing from the prison.

Warden Dido Kitunga refused to comment. But inmates reached by cell phones said stones and bottles were thrown at guards, and about 10 prisoners were wounded as guards fired tear gas and beat inmates back with clubs.

The inmates said the tighter restrictions included a ban on visitors and fewer meals.

About a dozen prisoners were discovered missing Tuesday. All were former members of Kabila's military guard who were convicted of playing a role in his 2001 assassination.

In 2003, a Kinshasa court sentenced 26 people to death in connection with the killing, although none of the executions is known to have been carried out. Some 64 others were sentenced to terms ranging from six months to life.

Current President Joseph Kabila took power after his father was killed and helped set up a transitional government with the aim of transforming the restive, sprawling Central African nation into a democratic state.

Congo is readying for a presidential runoff vote Sunday between Joseph Kabila and Jean-Pierre Bemba, an ex-rebel leader who is one of the country's four vice presidents. The runoff was required after no candidate won a majority in the first round in July.