The Nigerian Correctional Service announced that 281 inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Maiduguri, Borno State, are missing after severe flooding forced the facility’s evacuation.
A statement released by the service’s spokesman, Umar Abubakar, revealed that seven inmates have so far been returned. The service has also released the details and biometrics of the missing inmates to help track them down.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service has observed the flooding currently being experienced in Maiduguri, Borno State, which has caused significant damage, including to the walls of the Medium Security Custodial Centre and staff quarters,” Abubakar noted.
After evacuating the facility with assistance from security agencies, 281 inmates were found to be missing.
However, he reassured the public, stating, “The service is in custody of their details, including their biometrics,” and efforts are underway to recapture the remaining inmates.
Seven have already been returned, and security agencies are working to locate the rest.
Abubakar assured that public safety remains unaffected by the incident.
The flood has claimed at least 30 lives and impacted a million others, according to the country’s emergency agency. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced and are now residing in temporary shelters.
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