NCoS denies stealing inmates’ valuables in Kuje raid

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has vehemently denied reports alleging that its officers stole valuables from inmates during a recent search operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja. The service has described these claims as false, misleading, and inconsistent with established custodial procedures.

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The Service wishes to categorically state that the allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with the operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country.

In a statement, the NCoS Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, asserted that the operation was a routine security search conducted professionally and in line with Standard Operating Procedures. The purpose was to maintain order, discipline, and security within the facility. The service also dismissed specific allegations of inmates being robbed of valuables worth over N120 million, stating that such claims are not supported by official records.

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For the avoidance of doubt, what took place at the Custodial Centre in Kuje was a routine security search carried out within the facility, and all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented. The exercise was conducted professionally and in line with extant Standard Operating Procedures aimed at maintaining security, order, discipline and the integrity of custodial operations.

The NCoS clarified that inmates are prohibited from possessing unauthorized items or large sums of money while in custody. Any personal belongings declared upon admission are documented and securely stored until an inmate's lawful release. Records from the Kuje facility, according to the NCoS, do not indicate that any of the reported items were declared by inmates or found during the search.

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The Nigerian Correctional Service operates under clearly defined regulations which prohibit inmates from keeping personal unauthorised items and large sums of money while in custody.

The service emphasized that the operation was conducted to maintain the integrity of custodial operations and that all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented. The NCoS also noted that no official complaints of theft or loss have been filed through any channel by inmates or other individuals within the facility, asserting that the Kuje centre remains calm, peaceful, and secure. The response addresses reports that suggested high-profile inmates, including former Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni and suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari, were among those affected by the alleged theft.

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The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, is calm, peaceful and secure.