The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has confirmed that sixteen inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, in the early hours of Tuesday after breaching the facility’s security.
News360 Info reports that the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, Umar Abubakar, in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed that Nwakuche visited the facility following the incident and has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Abubakar said the inmates reportedly overpowered personnel on duty during the breakout, and Nwakuche has stated that any staff found complicit in the escape would face disciplinary action.
According to him, Nwakuche also directed a coordinated manhunt for the fleeing inmates, working closely with other security agencies.
He further urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity or sightings of the escapees to the nearest security post.
The statement reads, “The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has visited the facility and has ordered a thorough investigation into the escape. He said no staff will be spared if found culpable.
“Furthermore, he has directed an immediate search to recapture the fleeing inmates in collaboration with sister security agencies.
“Members of the public are hereby urged to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or sightings of fleeing inmates to the nearest security formation.
“While preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape, the Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to public safety and the security of all custodial facilities nationwide,”
