Global Upfront Newspapers
CoverNews

EndSARS: Hoodlums frees 1,993 prison inmates, loots armoury in “unconscionable attack on Custodial centres” in Edo State – Interior Ministry

“Two Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Custodial Centres in Benin City and Oko in Edo State were attacked yesterday by protesters purportedly under the #ENDSARS aegis, freeing (at the last count) 1,993 inmates in legal custody and looting the centres, including the weapons in their armoury.

“They came in large number, bearing dangerous weapons and attacked the officers on guard duty. They were unmistakable on their mission, which was to force the cells open, free the inmates and carry out other nefarious activities.

“The situation has been brought under control while security in and around the custodial centres nationwide has been beefed up. Investigation has commenced to determine the full impact of the attack.

“Peaceful protest is legitimate and guaranteed as a fundamental right of citizens, operating as individuals and groups. However, attacking a custodial centre is a criminal act which detracts from the advertised objectives of the movement and capable of imputing impure motives to its drivers.

“It must be reiterated that the custodial centres are high security zones. The primary duty of the institution is to keep custody of convicted criminals and awaiting trial suspects; this comes before their reformation. It is integral to the justice administration system.

“The integrity of the custodial centres is therefore fundamental to justice. Inmates of the centres are expected to pay their dues to society, undergo reformation and be reintegrated into society as changed-for-better persons. When this process is disrupted in any way, the integrity of justice and societal renewal is subverted, with dire and unimaginable consequences.

“Most of the inmates held at the centres are convicted criminals serving terms for various criminal offences, awaiting execution or standing trial for violent crimes. Their being let loose gravely imperils lives and property. It is an unacceptable and intolerable threat to national and communal security. Government’s primary duty is to protect lives and property and keep the people safe. We shall not be shirking in our responsibility and we shall not disappoint the people.

“We urge the #ENDSARS protesters to remain peaceful, embrace dialogue, screen their rank and file and flush out those with criminal intents and, more importantly, steer clear of the custodial centres.

“This is to assure Nigerians, especially Edo State residents, that in conjunction with other security agencies, we have commenced the tracking and apprehension of all the escaped inmates before they do any harm. Anyone who notices any person or persons that might have escaped from the custodial centres should, as a patriotic duty, inform the nearest security agency.”

Signed

Mohammed Manga
Director, Press & Public Relations
Ministry of Interior
20th October, 2020

Advertize With Us

See Also

Trump, Fauci tout ‘good news’ from remdesivir drug trial in treating COVID-19

Global Upfront

Who is Goya Menor the “Dori Me” Bamba Man!

Global Upfront

IPOB stay-at-home order indicate either strong support for separatist group or fear of going against it

Global Upfront

How Burna Boy Set The World Alight With His Mixed Brew Of Musical Influences

Global Upfront

Putin Says Russia Aims to ‘Build New World’ But Responds To Constant Geopolitical Pressure

Global Upfront

Chad: Promises Of A New Chapter Fade As Junta Strengthens Its Hold Ahead Of Elections

Global Upfront

Three killed, properties destroyed in Gombe State as crisis deepens over appointment of Mai Tangale traditional ruler

Global Upfront

Former British Soldier Accused Of Escaping Prison Congratulates Police “On Catching Him” in West London

Global Upfront

Worries Over Impending Fuel Subsidy Removal In Nigeria Come June 2023

Global Upfront

Nigeria: Anxiety Over Deteriorating Security Morphing Into Panic, By John Campbell

Global Upfront

This website uses Cookies to improve User experience. We assume this is OK...If not, please opt-out! Accept Read More