In the early hours of Monday, chaos erupted at the Medium Security Prison in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, as 12 inmates managed to escape in a shocking jailbreak.
Authorities have since launched an intense manhunt, leading to the recapture of five escapees, while the Federal Government has vowed to track down the remaining fugitives.
The Kogi State government confirmed the incident through a statement by Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo.
He described the escape as “unfortunate” but assured citizens that swift action was being taken to prevent future breaches.
Security operatives have been deployed to investigate how the inmates managed to flee, with early reports suggesting they manipulated padlocks in one of the facility’s sections.
“The theory that they escaped without causing structural damage raises serious concerns,” Fanwo stated, emphasizing the need for a thorough probe.
In response, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered an immediate investigation into the jailbreak. He also directed the acting Controller General of Prisons, Sylvester Nwakuche, to visit the scene, assess security lapses, and conduct a nationwide audit of prison facilities.
Meanwhile, the prison authorities confirmed that security forces swiftly moved in to restore order, securing the facility and intensifying efforts to capture the remaining escapees.
The public has been urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
The government has reassured residents that their safety remains a top priority, urging them to continue their daily activities without fear. As investigations unfold, the authorities are determined to ensure that justice prevails and that the prison system is reinforced to prevent similar occurrences.
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