Entrance gate of Keffi Prison, Nasarawa State
By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja-
Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) reported that 16 inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar, the escape occurred after inmates overpowered security measures and attacked personnel on duty, leading to a breach of the facility.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Umar revealed, “Some inmates compromised the facility’s security, enabling the escape.”
The incident left five staff members injured, with two in critical condition and receiving urgent medical care at a government hospital.
Umar noted, “Seven of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured and returned to custody.”
Controller-General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, who visited the facility, ordered an immediate investigation to uncover the cause of the breach.
Umar quoted Nwakuche as saying, “No staff found culpable will be spared, and a search operation is underway with other security agencies to apprehend the remaining escapees.”
The public has been urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the fugitives to nearby security agencies.
Umar emphasized, “Preliminary investigations are ongoing, and we remain committed to ensuring public safety and securing all custodial facilities across the nation.”
