ABUJA: The Federal Government has confirmed the recapture of five out of 12 inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, following a jailbreak in the early hours of Monday, March 24, 2025.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson, DCC Abubakar Umar, disclosed in a statement that some inmates had manipulated padlocks in one section of the facility, leading to their escape.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, mobilized security personnel, in collaboration with other security agencies and the Special Security Adviser (SSA) to the Governor of Kogi State, to secure the facility and track down the escapees.
“As of this moment, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice,” Umar stated.
He further disclosed that the NCoS has launched a comprehensive investigation into the jailbreak and has ordered a nationwide security audit of all correctional facilities to prevent future occurrences.
The government has urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities that could aid in recapturing the remaining fugitives.
“The safety of custodial centers remains a top priority, and measures are being reinforced to strengthen security across all facilities,” the NCoS assured.
