Sixteen inmates have escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Keffi (New), in Nasarawa State, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed.

The inmates were said to have made their escape from the facility in the early hours of Tuesday, August 12.

Umar Abubakar, the spokesperson for the NCoS in a statement said the jailbreak occurred after some inmates breached the security at the facility.

Abubakar also noted that the inmates attacked the prison officials on duty during their escape attempt.

He noted that the officials who were injured in the process are currently receiving treatment from a medical facility.

Abubakar also said that seven of the escapees have been recaptured by the NCoS.

“The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has visited the facility and has ordered a thorough investigation into the escape. He said no staff will be spared if found culpable.

“Furthermore, he has directed an immediate search to recapture the fleeing inmates in collaboration with sister security agencies. Members of the public are hereby urged to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or sightings of fleeing inmates to the nearest security formation.

‘While preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape, the Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to public safety and the security of all custodial facilities nationwide,” Abubakar added.