The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it has recaptured five out of the 12 inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, following a security breach early Monday morning.
In a statement released on Monday, NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar disclosed that the escape occurred after a group of inmates tampered with padlocks in one section of the facility, allowing 12 individuals to flee.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, immediately mobilized a response team in collaboration with heads of security agencies and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State.
Security personnel were swiftly deployed to restore order, secure the facility, and launch a manhunt for the escapees.
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“As of this moment, five of the escaped inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining seven,” the statement read.
The NCoS further assured the public that a thorough investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances leading to the escape. Additionally, a nationwide security audit of all correctional facilities is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“The Acting Controller General has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the escape. Furthermore, security measures at custodial centres across the country are being reinforced to prevent future occurrences,” the statement added.
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The service also urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to security agencies to aid in the recapture of the remaining inmates.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has ordered an immediate probe into the jailbreak at the Koton Karfe Custodial Centre in Kogi State.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in a statement by his Media Adviser, Babatunde Alao on Monday in Abuja, described the incident as unfortunate.
He vowed to ensure that all fleeing inmates are captured by leveraging the service’s robust biometrics and already deployed technology solutions.