The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that 274 inmates are unaccounted for following severe flooding that caused the walls of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Maiduguri, Borno State, to collapse.
In a statement released on Sunday, NCoS spokesman Umar Abubakar shared the alarming update amidst the ongoing disaster caused by the flooding. The catastrophic event, triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam after heavy rainfall, has inundated vast areas of Maiduguri, displacing over a million residents and resulting in at least 30 fatalities.
Described as the worst flooding in the region in three decades, the disaster has caused extensive damage to infrastructure and homes. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been actively engaged in rescue operations, successfully saving over 400 individuals trapped by the floodwaters.
The scale of the flooding has led to significant disruption, with many residents relying on canoes to navigate the submerged streets for evacuation. This situation has raised urgent concerns regarding the safety and well-being of those affected.
As the search for the missing inmates continues, the NCoS, along with relevant authorities, is diligently addressing the crisis and providing necessary support to the affected population.
“The unfortunate incident has left lasting damage, collapsing the walls of correctional facilities, including the MSCC and nearby staff quarters,” Abubakar stated.
During the evacuation, 281 inmates were found to be missing, with seven having been recaptured and returned to custody. Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining inmates, with the NCoS confirming they possess their details, including biometric information.
Abubakar assured the public that measures are in place, with both covert and overt deployments activated in collaboration with other security agencies to locate the missing individuals. “While this operation is underway, the public can rest assured that overall safety is not compromised,” he added.
