The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has officially confirmed the escape of inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State. The incident occurred during heavy rainfall, which caused significant damage to the prison’s perimeter fence on Wednesday,Daily Trust reports.
In a statement released on Thursday morning, Adamu Duza, spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) command of NCoS, disclosed that a total of 118 inmates escaped as a result of the damaged facility.
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“The Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, experienced severe damage during a heavy downpour on the night of Wednesday, April 24, 2024, leading to the escape of 118 inmates. The damage included the destruction of the perimeter fence, enabling the escape,” the statement read.
Duza further stated that the NCoS has activated its recapturing protocols and, in collaboration with other security agencies, has successfully re-apprehended 10 of the fleeing inmates. Efforts are ongoing to recapture the remaining escapees.
Recognizing the challenges posed by aging correctional facilities, the NCoS reiterated its commitment to upgrading infrastructure to modern standards. Francis John, Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, assured the public of the NCoS’s vigilance in addressing the situation and urged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear.
According to sources, some of the escaped inmates were apprehended between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.
