Kogi Police Launch Manhunt Following Prison Break in Okene

The Kogi State Police Command has officially confirmed that two convicted inmates have escaped from the Okene Correctional Centre. The incident, which has triggered a search operation by local security forces, occurred during the morning hours of Sunday, November 8, 2026.

Details of the Incident

According to a statement released on Tuesday, November 10, by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the escape took place at approximately 10:30 a.m. The police command received a formal report regarding the breach from the correctional facility shortly after the event transpired.

While the police have acknowledged the escape, specific details regarding how the inmates managed to bypass security protocols or their identities remain undisclosed. The official statement did not provide information on the nature of the crimes for which the individuals were originally convicted, nor did it offer details on the current status of the facility’s internal investigation.

Coordinated Security Response

In the wake of the escape, the Kogi State Police Command has initiated a collaborative effort to locate and apprehend the fugitives. ASP Afusat noted that the police are working in conjunction with the Nigerian Correctional Service and other relevant security agencies to secure the area and track the whereabouts of the escapees.

The Command said efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the escapees, assuring residents that security agencies were collaborating to return them to custody.

The authorities have emphasized that the primary objective of this inter-agency cooperation is the prompt rearrest of the individuals. Residents in the Okene area and surrounding regions are expected to remain vigilant as the search continues.

Context of Correctional Security

The Nigerian Correctional Service frequently manages security across various facilities, balancing the rehabilitation of inmates with the necessity of maintaining secure perimeters. When breaches occur, standard procedure involves an immediate notification of law enforcement agencies to establish cordons and conduct intelligence-led searches.

As of the time of reporting, there has been no further update from the police or correctional authorities regarding potential leads or the specific location of the escapees. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station as the investigation into the circumstances of the escape proceeds.

The situation remains fluid, and further information regarding the security measures taken at the Okene Correctional Centre following this incident has not been made available by the police command.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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