In a troubling development, 119 inmates have escaped from the medium security Suleja Prisons in Niger State following significant damage caused by prolonged heavy rainfall. The incident was confirmed by Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory command of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS), in a statement released in Abuja.
Duza reported that the torrential rains, which occurred on the night of Wednesday, April 24, 2024, severely compromised the structural integrity of the prison, particularly damaging its perimeter fence. This breach enabled the escape of numerous inmates housed at the facility.
In response, the NPS has launched a comprehensive operation to recapture the escaped prisoners, working in collaboration with various security agencies. To date, 13 inmates have been successfully apprehended and returned to custody, with efforts ongoing to locate and secure the remaining fugitives.
The spokesperson acknowledged the challenges posed by the ageing infrastructure of many prison facilities, which date back to the colonial era and are now deteriorating. He highlighted the government's proactive steps toward modernization, including the construction of six new 3000-capacity ultra-modern custodial centers across all geo-political zones of Nigeria and renovations of existing facilities.
Duza reassured the public of the NPS's control over the situation and urged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear. He also appealed to the public to assist in monitoring and reporting any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest security agencies, aiding in the effort to recapture the remaining escapees.
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