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The Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger state, faced a devastating situation on Wednesday night as a result of prolonged heavy rainfall. The downpour caused substantial damage to parts of the facility, including the perimeter fence, resulting in the escape of no fewer than 119 inmates.
Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory FCT Command of the Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS, confirmed this development in a statement released on Thursday morning. Duza revealed that efforts to recapture the escaped inmates were immediately initiated, with 10 inmates successfully recaptured so far, while authorities continue their pursuit to apprehend the rest.
Highlighting the age and vulnerability of many correctional facilities, Duza emphasized ongoing efforts by the Service to replace aging infrastructure with modern facilities. He mentioned the construction of six ultra-modern custodial centres across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, as well as ongoing reconstruction and renovation projects for existing facilities.
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Assuring the public of their safety, Duza urged citizens to carry on with their activities without fear, emphasizing the Service’s commitment to addressing the situation effectively. He also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agency.
As authorities work diligently to manage the aftermath of the escape, the incident underscores the need for continued investment in modernizing correctional facilities to ensure both security and effective rehabilitation of inmates.
TheTimesonline
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TheTimes.com.ng
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