The Nigerian Correctional Service, (NCoS) has said 35 inmates refused to escape from custody after gunmen attacked the correctional facility and police command in Owerri, Imo state on Monday, April 5.
The service also said six other inmates voluntarily returned.
In a statement issued by the NCoS PRO, Francis Enobore, the service said a total of 1,844 inmates fled during the attack.
”They were said to have arrived at the centre in their large number in several Hilux pick-up vans and Sienna buses armed with sophisticated weapons and immediately engaged the security personnel on duty in a fierce gun battle. They eventually detonated the explosive to gain entrance.
”The Acting Controller-General of Corrections, John Mrabure has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident and in collaboration with other security organizations, commenced a search and recovery operations to recapture the fleeing inmates”.
