5 Inmates of Kogi Jail Break Recaptured
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that five out of twelve inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, following a security breach on Monday morning, have been recaptured.
NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar shared the update in a statement on Monday, explaining that the escape occurred when a group of inmates manipulated the padlocks in one section of the facility, enabling twelve inmates to break free.
In response to the incident, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, immediately mobilized a collaborative effort with heads of security agencies and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State. Personnel were deployed to secure the facility and restore order, while a manhunt was launched for the escapees. As of now, five of the twelve inmates have been apprehended, and efforts continue to locate 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.”
The Acting Controller General, Sylvester Nwakuche, stated, “Upon receiving reports of the attack, I mobilized a response in collaboration with heads of sister security agencies and the SSA to the Governor of Kogi State. Personnel were deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees.”
The statement further mentioned that an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape. A nationwide security audit of all correctional facilities is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The NCoS also assured the public that security measures are being strengthened at custodial centers across the country, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to assist in recapturing 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 concluded.
