One correctional officer was killed in the incident.

The Nigerian Government has confirmed the recapture of five out of 12 inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, following a jailbreak on Monday morning.

One correctional officer was killed in the incident.

According to a statement by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson, DCC Abubakar Umar, the jailbreak occurred in the early hours of March 24, 2024, after some inmates tampered with the padlocks in a section of the facility, enabling their escape.

"Upon receiving reports of the attack, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, in collaboration with heads of sister security agencies, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kogi State, immediately mobilized personnel to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees," Umar stated.

"So far, five of the escaped inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining fugitives.

Meanwhile, the Acting Controller General has also ordered a full-scale investigation into the circumstances that led to the jailbreak.

He said, “Additionally, a security audit is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent future occurrences.

“The Service urges members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may assist in the recapture of those still at large. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.

“The Service assures Nigerians that the safety of custodial centres remains a top priority, and measures are being reinforced to strengthen security across all facilities. The NCoS remains committed to ensuring that correctional facilities fulfil their mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates.”

Earlier, the NCoS confirmed the death of one of its officers following the jailbreak.

According to Umar, 12 inmates managed to escape during the incident.

“We are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident especially to determine how the inmates managed to break out without causing structural damage.

“Unfortunately, one of our officer lost his life during the incident.

“We are working closely with the police and other security agencies to ensure that the escaped inmates are rearrested and brought back to custody,” he said.