According to BBC, after a Muslim taxi driver was killed, clashes erupted on Saturday between Christian militia and Muslim groups.

Members of a Christian militia known as the anti-Balaka attacked the prison on Monday, freeing hundreds of soldiers and militiamen. BBC reports.

The CAR has been wracked by violence since a mainly Muslim rebel group, the Seleka, seized power in March 2013.

Since the latest upturn in violence began at the weekend, more than 30 people have been killed. 

Thousands of protesters marched on the presidential palace on Monday to call for greater power for the army, which has seen its powers reduced since an interim government was installed in January 2014. BBC reports. 

Presidential elections are scheduled for October, a month before Pope Francis visits Bangui.