The severe flooding, collapsed the walls of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), led to the disappearance of 274 inmates, according to NCoS spokesman Umar Abubakar, in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday,

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed SaharaReporters' report that over 200 inmates escaped after the recent flooding incident in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The severe flooding, collapsed the walls of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), led to the disappearance of 274 inmates, according to NCoS spokesman Umar Abubakar, in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday,

The catastrophic floods, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam due to heavy rainfall, have devastated Maiduguri, marking the worst flooding in 30 years. This disaster has submerged large parts of the city, displaced over a million people, and resulted in at least 30 deaths.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been engaged in rescue efforts, saving over 400 individuals trapped by the floodwaters. The damage has significantly impacted infrastructure and homes, leaving many residents stranded and dependent on canoes for evacuation.

"The unfortunate incident has left scars, bringing down the walls of the correctional facilities, including the Medium Security Custodial Centre Maiduguri (MSCC) as well as the staff quarters in the City," Abubakar said.

Of the 281 inmates initially reported missing, seven have been recaptured and returned to custody.

The NCoS is collaborating with other security agencies to locate the remaining escapees, with detailed records, including biometrics, of the missing inmates.

"While this effort is on, the public is assured that the incident does not impede or affect public safety," Abubakar added.

https://saharareporters.com/2024/09/10/breaking-over-200-inmates-including-boko-haram-commanders-escape-flood-collapses

Meanwhile, SaharaReporters on Tuesday, September 10, reported that no fewer than 200 inmates had escaped after a devastating flood pulled down the prison walls in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

An official of the NCoS in Maiduguri told SaharaReporters that over 200 inmates escaped from the facility after a portion of the facility's parameter fence was pulled down in the aftermath of the flood that recently ravaged the city.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that some Boko Haram commanders held at the Maiduguri New Prison were among those who escaped.

The source said, "The rain was torrential and caused terrible flood which affected our facility.

"Part of the wall of the Maiduguri New Prison collapsed and some Boko Haram commanders held in our facility have escaped with other prisoners. Those who escaped are more than 200 in all."

"We were able to move 200 other inmates to a different facility," the officer added.