The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed the recapture of five out of 12 inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, following a security breach on Monday morning.q
NCoS spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.
According to the statement, the escape occurred when a group of inmates tampered with padlocks in one section of the facility, enabling 12 individuals to flee.
Upon learning of the incident, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, mobilized a response team in collaboration with security agencies and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State. Personnel were deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and launch a manhunt for the escapees.
As of now, five of the twelve escaped inmates have been successfully recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining seven.
The statement read:
“The Nigerian Correctional Service confirms a security breach at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, 24 March, 2024.
“During the unfortunate incident, some inmates in a section of the facility manipulated the padlocks, leading to the escape of 12 inmates.”
“Upon receiving reports of the attack, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, in collaboration with heads of sister security agencies including the SSA to the Governor of Kogi State, immediately mobilized to the facility, and personnel were deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees.”
“As of this moment, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice.”
The statement also mentioned that a thorough investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape. Additionally, a nationwide security audit of all correctional facilities is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The NCoS assured the public that steps are being taken to enhance security measures at custodial centers across the country.
The service also urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to security agencies to aid in the recapture of the remaining escapees.
“The Acting Controller General of Corrections has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. Additionally, a security audit is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent future occurrences,” the statement added.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the authorities as part of efforts to ensure the recapture of the remaining inmates and reinforce security across custodial facilities.
