By George Omagbemi
A 28-year-old awaiting-trial inmate, identified as Osita Thomas, has reportedly escaped from custody while appearing for trial at a court in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Edo State Command, confirmed the incident in a statement dated October 21, signed by its Public Relations Officer, Aminu Suleman. Reports said Thomas was being held at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Auchi before he was taken to court last week to face allegations of conspiracy and stealing.
According to reports, the escape occurred after the court reportedly declined to grant him bail. Thomas allegedly fled the court premises following the sitting, leaving correctional officers to respond to the situation.
The incident has prompted efforts by the Edo State Command of the NCoS to locate and recapture the escapee.
The service has appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist security operatives in establishing his whereabouts.
Anyone with relevant information has been urged to contact the nearest custodial centre or police station, or call 08038075882 or 08039243704, numbers provided by the correctional service.
The Controller of Corrections in Edo State assured the public that efforts were underway to recapture Thomas and that security measures had been strengthened to prevent similar incidents.
The escape has also raised questions about inmate supervision and security arrangements during court appearances.
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