The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed the recapture of five out of twelve inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, following a security breach in the early hours of Monday.
In a statement released on Monday, NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar disclosed that the escape occurred when a group of inmates tampered with padlocks in one section of the facility, enabling twelve of them to flee.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, swiftly mobilized a coordinated response involving heads of security agencies and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State. Security personnel were immediately deployed to restore order, secure the facility, and launch a manhunt for the fugitives.
“As of now, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining seven and bring them to justice,” the statement read.
The NCoS further revealed that a full-scale investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape. Additionally, a nationwide security audit of correctional facilities is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Assuring the public of ongoing efforts to reinforce security across custodial centres, the service urged citizens to report any suspicious activities that could aid in the recapture of the remaining escapees.
