Two months after heavy flooding damaged the Maiduguri correctional facility in Borno State, 278 inmates are still unaccounted for. The flooding on September 10 led to extensive destruction across the region, including roads, bridges, hospitals, and the medium-security custodial center, enabling the escape of 281 inmates.
The spokesperson for the Nigeria Correctional Service, Abubakar Umar, explained that the flood breached the prison walls and staff quarters, resulting in the loss of custody for many inmates. While efforts to recapture the escapees have been ongoing, only four of the fugitives have been rearrested so far, including Auwalu Aminu, Abubakar Mohammed, and Kyari Kur.
According to Police Public Relations Officer Nahum Daso, the recent recaptures were the result of swift police action based on credible tips from local residents. Daso confirmed that active search operations are still underway, with ongoing efforts to locate the remaining escapees.
The re-arrested convicts have been returned to the correctional service, and authorities continue to pursue leads to secure the others at large.
