Nigerian Correctional Service denies inmate robbery claims
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
News
Official statement
Context piece
- The Nigerian Correctional Service denied allegations of officials stealing valuables from inmates at the Kuje custodial center.
- The service stated that a routine security search was conducted professionally and all recovered items were documented.
- It asserted that claims of inmates being robbed of over ₦120 million are false and unsupported by official records.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has vehemently denied reports circulating online that its officials stole valuables from inmates during a search at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja. The service described the allegations as false, misleading, and contrary to established procedures.
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, NCoS spokesperson Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji explained that the operation was a routine security search aimed at maintaining order and discipline. She emphasized that the exercise was conducted professionally, adhering to standard operating procedures, and that all prohibited items recovered were properly 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 specifically refuted claims that inmates were robbed of valuables exceeding ₦120 million, stating that such amounts were not declared by any inmates and were not found during the search. The service reiterated that inmates are prohibited from keeping unauthorized items or large sums of money in custody. Any personal belongings declared upon admission are kept secure until the inmate's release.
The Nigerian Correctional Service operates under clearly defined regulations which prohibit inmates from keeping unauthorised personal items and large sums of money while in custody.
Furthermore, the NCoS confirmed that no official complaints of theft or loss have been lodged by any inmates or other individuals within the facility. The statement concluded by assuring the public that the Kuje custodial center remains calm, peaceful, and secure. The response addresses reports, notably from SaharaReporters, alleging that high-profile inmates, including former Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni and suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari, were affected by the search.
The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, is calm, peaceful and secure.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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