Security operatives have recaptured five out of no fewer than 12 prison inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, during a jailbreak Monday morning.
Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Spokesperson, DCC Abubakar Umar, who confirmed this in a statement said that the jailbreak occurred suddenly in the early morning on Monday 24, March 2025 when inmates in a section of the facility manipulated padlocks and sneaked away before security personnel on duty noticed.
Following incident, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, quickly mobilised sister security agencies and in an operation coordinated by the Kogi State Government to restore order and initiated swift manhunt for the fleeing prisoners, many of who were convicted hardened criminals, were rearrested.
The statement read in part: “As of this moment, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice.”
He disclosed that the Acting Controller General has ordered thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the jailbreak.
“Additionally, a security audit is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent future occurrences.
“The Service urges members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may assist in the recapture of those still at large. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.
“The Service assures Nigerians that the safety of custodial centres remains a top priority, and measures are being reinforced to strengthen security across all facilities. The NCoS remains committed to ensuring that correctional facilities fulfil their mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates,” the statement noted.