Controller investigates Benin prison attempted jailbreak

Abiodun OBA

The Benin Correctional Centre controller of corrections, Felix Lawrence, has instituted investigations to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the attempted jailbreak by inmates of the correctional centre.

Popularly called the White House, the facility is located along Sapele Road, close to the City Center, popularly known as Ring Road.

Security operatives of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army on Thursday, aborted the attempted jailbreak made by inmates of the Correctional Centre.

Spokesman of the Edo Command of Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Aminu Suleman, who confirmed the incident in a statement made available to journalists in Benin City, said there was no escape of any inmates or death.

He said the attempted jailbreak began at about 12.30 pm, as a result of a confrontation spearheaded by some awaiting trial inmates, especially the recaptured escapees, and convicted inmates.

Suleman further said reinforcement was immediately mobilized from the State headquarters to enforce law and order.

“At about 12.30 pm, some awaiting trial inmates especially the recaptured escapees started protest which led to a confrontation between them and the convicted inmates.

“Sister security agencies have showed solidarity by drafting their men around the outer perimeter fence to complement correctional service armed squad personnel to ensure total security of the custodial centre,” Suleman said.

“The controller of corrections, Felix Lawrence, wishes to assure the general public that they should go about their normal business without any fear,” he added.