Prisoner awaiting trial escapes from Edo court

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has launched an investigation into the escape of a 28-year-old awaiting-trial inmate, Osita Thomas, from court premises in Auchi, Edo State.

According to The Nation, Thomas escaped after appearing before a court in Etsako West Local Government Area last week.

The inmate, detained at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Auchi, reportedly fled after the court refused his bail application.

Sources disclosed that the correctional officer escorting him could not pursue him over fears that other inmates might escape.

An official attributed the incident to personnel shortages within the service.

Confirming the escape, Edo Command spokesman Aminu Suleman appealed for public assistance.

“The Service solicits the cooperation of the general public to recapture the fugitive. Anyone with useful information about his whereabouts should contact the nearest Custodial Centre or Police Station, or call 08038075882 or 08039243704.

“The Controller of Corrections, Edo State Command, assures the general public that no effort will be spared to recapture the fugitive, while security of all inmates in custody has been strengthened.”