The Federal Government has confirmed the rearrest of five out of the twelve inmates who escaped during Monday’s jailbreak at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State.
A statement released by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), DCC Abubakar Umar, revealed that the incident took place in the early hours of March 24, 2024.
According to Umar, a group of inmates in one section of the facility tampered with the padlocks, enabling their escape.
Upon receiving news of the incident, Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, alongside officials from security agencies and the Senior Special Assistant to the Kogi State Governor, swiftly mobilized to the facility. Security personnel were deployed to restore order and track down the escapees.
“So far, five of the escaped inmates have been recaptured, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining individuals and ensure they face justice,” the statement read.
In response to the situation, Nwakuche has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the jailbreak.
Additionally, a security review is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The NCoS urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities that could aid in locating the remaining fugitives.
Reassuring Nigerians of the government’s commitment to maintaining the security of custodial centres, the service emphasized that corrective facilities remain focused on safe custody, rehabilitation, and the reintegration of inmates.