The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared that 281 inmates are missing following the collapse of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Maiduguri, Borno State, due to severe flooding....READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
The NCoS attributed the incident to the evacuation of inmates after a flood disaster struck the state. So far, seven inmates have been recaptured.
In a statement issued in Abuja by NCoS spokesman, Umar Abubakar, the agency revealed that the details and biometrics of the missing inmates had been released to the public to aid in their identification and recapture.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service has observed the flooding currently being experienced in Maiduguri, Borno State, and its environment. The unfortunate incident has left scars, bringing down the walls of the correctional facilities, including the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Maiduguri, as well as the staff quarters,” the statement read.
The flooding, triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam on the Ngadda River, has affected over 23,000 households, making it the worst flooding in Maiduguri in over 30 years, according to the United Nations Human Rights Refugee Council.
Abubakar assured the public that the NCoS is actively collaborating with other security agencies to locate and recapture the missing inmates.
“Presently, a total of seven inmates have been recaptured and returned to custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down the rest and bring them back to safe custody,” he stated.
He also emphasized that public safety was not compromised, adding that covert and overt operations have been initiated.
“We are taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety and smooth operations while evacuating inmates to safer facilities,” he said.
The Presidency has pledged support, with the Vice President personally visiting Maiduguri to assess the situation, as the NCoS continues to work diligently to resolve the crisis.
