The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that a total of 274 inmates fled the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Maiduguri, Borno State, following a severe flooding incident that caused the walls of the facility to collapse.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Umar Abubakar, the NCoS spokesman, revealed the distressing news amid ongoing devastation from the flooding.
The catastrophic floods, triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam after intense rainfall, have submerged large areas of Maiduguri, displacing over a million residents and claiming at least 30 lives.
This flood is described as the worst in the region in 30 years, bringing significant damage to both infrastructure and homes.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been at the forefront of rescue operations, successfully saving over 400 individuals trapped by the rising waters.
The extent of the damage has led to widespread disruption, with many residents now relying on canoes for evacuation as they navigate the submerged streets.
The floods have not only overwhelmed the city but also raised urgent concerns about the safety and well-being of those affected.
As the search for the missing inmates continues, the NCoS and other relevant authorities are working diligently to address the crisis and provide necessary support to the affected population.
“The unfortunate incident has left scars, bringing down the walls of the correctional facilities, including the Medium Security Custodial Centre Maiduguri (MSCC) and the staff quarters in the City.
“Upon the evacuation of inmates by officers of the Service with support from sister security agencies to a safe and secure facility, 281 inmates were observed to be missing.
“A total of seven inmates have been recaptured and returned to custody, while efforts are on the ground to track down the rest and bring them back to safe custody,” the NCoS spokesman said.
He, however, said the service was in the custody of the fleeing inmates’ details, including their biometrics.
Abubakar said the service is working in synergy with other security agencies as both covert and overt deployments had been activated to look out for them.
“While this effort is on, the public is assured that the incident does not impede or affect public safety,” he said.
