The headquarters of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed today’s attack on its facility in Owerri in Imo state by unknown gunmen leading to escape of 1,844 inmates.
The spokesman for the service, Francis Enobore, in a press statement on Monday in Abuja, said the attackers stormed the facility at about 0215hrs on Monday 5th April, 2021, gained entry into the yard by using explosives to blast the administrative block.
“They were said to have arrived the centre in their large number in several Hilux pick-up vans and Sienna Buses, armed with sophisticated weapons and immediately engaged the security personnel on duty in a fierce gun battle. They eventually detonated the explosive to gain (entry).
“The Acting Controller-General of Corrections, John Mrabure has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident and in collaboration with other security organizations, commenced a search and recover operations to recapture the fleeing inmates.
“While appealing to the good citizens of Imo State and indeed Nigerians to volunteer useful intelligence that will facilitate the recovery effort, the Ag. Controller-General wishes to assure that the security of custodial centres in the country remains sacrosanct.”
The statement said the NCoS has equally directed all officers attached to custodial facilities to remain vigilant at the moment.
“As at the last count, 6 inmates have so far voluntarily returned to the facility while 35 inmates refused to escape from custody during the attack.”
