The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS) has said that the attempted jailbreak in its Bauchi Custodial Centre on Friday was caused by an attempt by an officer of the service who attempted to smuggle in a mobile phone for some inmates.
According to a statement posted on its website on Saturday, the NCS said a struggle occurred between the inmates who were to benefit from the illegal deal and other staff who busted the plan and enforced the centre’s rules and regulations.
The statement read: “A little skirmish broke out at the Bauchi State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service on Friday, April 9, 2021. This emanated from the attempt of an officer to smuggle a mobile phone into the custodial centre for the use of inmates.
“This is clearly illegal and against the rules. The officer has therefore been apprehended and is being interrogated.
“The scuffle occurred between the inmates who were to benefit from the illegal deal and other staff members who enforced the centre’s rules and regulations and busted the plan.
“However, two personnel and five inmates sustained injuries in the melee but have been treated and discharged from the facility’s medical unit.
“The restive inmates have also been put under control while the staff involved is undergoing interrogation, as ordered by the State Controller. This regrettable development is being investigated.”
