The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) has declared 281 inmates missing from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The Service noted that this followed an evacuation process in the aftermath of the flood incident in the State, as seven inmates were returned to the centre.

NCS, in a statement by its spokesman, Umar Abubakar, in Abuja, yesterday, released the details of the inmates, including their biometrics.

Abubakar said, “The Nigerian Correctional Service has observed the flooding currently being experienced in Maiduguri, Borno State, and its environment.

“The unfortunate incident has left scars, bringing down the walls of the correctional facilities, including the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Maiduguri (MSCC), as well as the staff quarters in the City.

“Upon the evacuation of inmates by officers of the service with support from sister security agencies to a safe and secure facility, 281 inmates were observed to be missing.”

He, however, added that “it is important to note that the service is in the custody of their details, including their biometrics, which is being made available to the public below.

“The service is working in synergy with other security agencies as both covert and overt deployments have been activated to look out for them.

“Presently, a total of seven inmates have been recaptured and returned to custody, while efforts are on the ground to track down the rest and bring them back to safe custody.”

While this effort is on, the public is assured that the incidence does not impede or affect public safety.”

Recall that the Service’s spokesman had, in a statement last Tuesday, assured that the NCoS officials were working diligently to manage the flood incident that had affected the custodial centre.

Abubakar said, “As the agency responsible for the safekeeping of inmates, we want to assure the public that we are taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety, evacuate inmates to a safer facility, ensure smooth operations, and collaborate with sister security and relevant agencies in providing support and assistance to those affected.

“Contrary to initial reports, the officers and men of the command are working around the clock to ensure a smooth and secure transfer process.

“We appreciate the support and guidance from the Presidency and the Vice President’s visit to Maiduguri to assess the situation.”

According to the National Emergency Management Agency, more than 23,000 households have been hit by the rapid rise of water following the weekend rupture of the Alau Dam on the Ngadda River, 20km south of Maiduguri.

The flood began after the dam overflowed following heavy rains leading to the town’s worst flooding in 30 years, according to the United Nations Human Rights Refugee Council and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council residents.