Five Escaped Inmates Recaptured As Authorities Intensify Search In Kogi.
Security forces in Kogi State have recaptured five of the inmates who escaped from the Koton Karfe Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) on Monday morning. However, seven others remain at large, prompting an intensive manhunt.
The spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Abubakar Umar, confirmed that all the escapees were Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATI). He assured the public that efforts are in full swing to apprehend the remaining fugitives.
Security Agencies Mobilised for Search
Umar revealed that a search operation involving all security agencies, including local vigilantes, has been launched across all exit and entry points in Kogi State.
“A search party has been deployed to all strategic locations to ensure the fleeing inmates are recaptured,” he stated.
The incident, which resulted in the tragic killing of a correctional officer on duty, saw a total of 12 inmates escaping from the facility.
Government Orders Investigation
In response to the breach, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to recapturing all the fugitives. He highlighted that advanced biometric systems and technology solutions would be deployed to track them down.
Additionally, the minister has directed the Acting Controller General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, to visit the facility for an on-the-ground assessment and a comprehensive audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our personnel are fully mobilised in Kogi, and I have ordered a thorough audit of the incident,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
Security agencies continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activity that could aid in the re-arrest of the remaining escapees.
