The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has launched a manhunt for 109 out of 119 inmates who took advantage of the collapse of the perimeter fence of the Medium Security Custodial Centres in Suleja, Niger state, to escape from custody during a downpour on Wednesday night.
According to the NCoS spokesperson, AS Duza, the perimeter fence of the prison collapsed during heavy rainfall that lasted for several hours on Wednesday night, causing havoc on the Medium Security Custodial Centres and surrounding buildings, including the destruction of part of the custodial facility’s perimeter fence.
Duza stated that while 10 of the inmates have been recaptured, efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining fugitives.
“The Service has immediately activated its recapturing mechanisms, and in conjunction with sister security agencies have so far recaptured 10 fleeing inmates and taken them into custody, while we are in hot chase to recapture the rest,” Duza said.
He further explained, “The Service is not unmindful of the fact that many of its facilities were built during the colonial era, and that they are old and weak.”
In response to the incident, the NCoS is taking steps to modernize its facilities. This includes the construction of six 3000-capacity ultra-modern custodial centers in all the geo-political zones in Nigeria, as well as the ongoing reconstruction and renovation of existing facilities.
The NCoS assured the public that it is addressing the situation and urged citizens to go about their activities without fear. Additionally, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious movement to the nearest security agency.
Oreoluwa is an accountant and a brand writer with a flair for journalism.
