The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared 281 inmates missing from the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Maiduguri, Borno State, following a flood-induced evacuation.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the service’s spokesman, Umar Abubakar, it was revealed that the flood had severely impacted the MSCC, damaging the prison walls and staff quarters. The flooding forced officers, with the support of other security agencies, to evacuate inmates to a safer facility.
“During the evacuation process, it was observed that 281 inmates were missing,” Abubakar said. However, he assured the public that the service had detailed records of the missing inmates, including their biometrics, which were being made available to the public.
Abubakar noted that a coordinated effort with other security agencies had been launched to recapture the escapees. “Currently, seven inmates have been recaptured and returned to custody. Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining fugitives and bring them back to secure detention,” he added.
Despite the incident, the NCoS assured the public that the situation does not pose a threat to public safety, and all measures are being taken to address the situation swiftly.
