No fewer than 13 criminal suspects, including alleged kidnappers and murderers, have escaped from police custody in Nasarawa State, sparking widespread concern over lapses in the security and justice system.
The detainees reportedly broke out of the Area Command cell facility in the early hours of Saturday, June 14, 2025, at about 6:30am, after successfully breaching the rear wall of the detention centre.
The suspects were being held by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping and Anti-Cultism Units at the time of the jailbreak.
Credible police sources confirmed the incident to Zagazola Makama on Sunday, revealing that the fugitives include several suspects linked to serious crimes such as kidnapping, culpable homicide, armed robbery, and membership of unlawful groups.
Jamilu Abdulsalam – suspected of chain theft and kidnapping
Police authorities say efforts are ongoing to rearrest the escapees. A manhunt has been launched in and around the state to track them down and return them to custody.
In a swift internal response, the Nasarawa Police Command has queried the Cell Record Officer, the Incident Duty Officer, the Cell Guard, and the Visiting Round Officer over alleged negligence that may have led to the escape.
A senior police officer who spoke under anonymity said, “This incident is being taken seriously. All officers on duty at the time are being investigated, and appropriate disciplinary actions will follow.”
The jailbreak comes amid rising concerns over security lapses within detention facilities in Nigeria, often attributed to poor infrastructure, inadequate staffing, and corruption.
Authorities are urging residents of Nasarawa and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious persons to law enforcement agencies.
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