No fewer than 10 people were killed in an attempted jail break in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire capital city, authorities said on Monday.

The incident occurred after inmates, who had obtained firearms, tried in a failed escape attempt to break jail.

The deceased included nine prisoners and one guard killed during sporadic gunshots, prosecutor general, Aly Yeo, told newsmen.

“The breakout bid at the MACA prison began on Saturday when prisoners opened fire on guards,” Mr. Yeo said.

He said the incident was brought under control on Sunday.

(Reuters/NAN)