About Democratic Republic of Congo's Correctional System
Democratic Republic of Congo's correctional system is managed by the Direction Générale des Services Pénitentiaires. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in Democratic Republic of Congo, contact US Embassy Democratic Republic of Congo at +243 81 556 0151 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
Democratic Republic of Congo Resources & Legal Services
Key Democratic Republic of Congo Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direction Générale des Services Pénitentiaires | Democratic Republic of Congo | See website | Visit Site |
| US Embassy Democratic Republic of Congo | Democratic Republic of Congo | +243 81 556 0151 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 3 facilities in Democratic Republic of Congo
Makala Central Prison
Facility
Closed
DRC's largest prison. Created in 1957 during Belgian rule. Located in the Makala commune of Kinshasa. Theoretical capacity of 1500 but holds around 15000. Security inside each of the eleven pavilions is maintained by inmates themselves with no guards inside. Site of a massive jailbreak in 2017 when thousands escaped and dozens died. In 2024 over 100 inmates died in another incident.
Ndolo Military Prison
Facility
Closed
Military prison in Ndolo district of Kinshasa. The only other detention centre in Kinshasa besides Makala. Houses military prisoners and civilians detained by security forces.
Prison Centrale de Lubumbashi
Facility
Closed
Main prison in DRC's second largest city. Houses sentenced and remand prisoners from the mineral-rich Katanga region.
Democratic Republic of Congo Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in Democratic Republic of Congo, contact US Embassy Democratic Republic of Congo at +243 81 556 0151 immediately.
Contact US Embassy Democratic Republic of Congo at +243 81 556 0151 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in Democratic Republic of Congo. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact Barreau de Kinshasa/Gombe for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in Democratic Republic of Congo. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each Democratic Republic of Congo facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.