By Atoyebi Nike
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 and overpowering officers on duty.
According to a statement from Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson Umar Abubakar, five officers were injured during the breakout, with two in serious condition and receiving treatment at a government hospital.
Seven of the escapees have been recaptured, while security agencies are intensifying efforts to locate the remaining nine.
Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche visited the facility after the incident and ordered a full investigation to determine how the escape occurred. He warned that any staff found complicit would face disciplinary action.
Nwakuche also directed a coordinated manhunt in collaboration with other security agencies and urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, reporting any suspicious activity or sightings of the fugitives to the nearest security post.
The Nigerian Correctional Service reiterated its commitment to safeguarding custodial facilities and maintaining public safety nationwide.
