Minister of Interior to Use Technology in Recapturing Escapees from Kogi Prison Break Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, has pledged to employ biometrics and technological tools to locate and recapture inmates who escaped during a prison break at Koton Karfe Correctional Centre in Kogi State.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Babatunde Alao, the Minister’s Media Assistant, on Monday. It follows a disclosure by the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) about 12 inmates escaping from the Koton Karfe Medium Security Custodial Centre earlier that same day.
Details of the Incident According to Mr. Abubakar Umar, NCoS Service Public Relations Officer, two of the escapees have been apprehended, while efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining ten. During the jailbreak, a prison officer tragically lost their life.
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how the inmates managed to escape without inflicting structural damage on the facility. Security agencies are working together to ensure all fugitives are rearrested,” Umar stated, adding that a thorough investigation is underway.
Minister’s Response Expressing his disappointment over the incident, Dr. Tunji-Ojo vowed to leverage advanced biometrics and technology to ensure the remaining escapees are found. He also ordered an immediate audit of the situation and directed Sylvester Ndidi, the Acting Controller General of the NCoS, to visit the correctional facility to assess the damage and oversee the investigation.
Background on Security Measures This development comes after earlier hints from the NCoS about introducing modern technology in correctional facilities across Nigeria. These measures aim to strengthen security and mitigate risks such as riots, escapes, and external attacks.
During an inaugural meeting in Abuja with senior officers, Acting Controller General Sylvester Nwakuche reaffirmed the Minister’s commitment to supporting the service with technological resources.
