Inmate Escapes After Prison Vehicle Crashes in Yobe
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Yobe State Command, has declared a convicted inmate wanted after he escaped from custody following a road accident involving a vehicle conveying prisoners from Potiskum to Damaturu.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Adamu, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the inmate fled the scene after the accident involving a vehicle transporting inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Potiskum, on April 13.
“The general public is hereby notified that the Nigerian Correctional Service, Yobe State Command, has confirmed the escape of an inmate from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Potiskum,” the statement read.
It explained that the incident occurred while efforts were ongoing to rescue victims of the crash.
“The unfortunate incident occurred while efforts were being made to rescue the affected accident victims. The individual managed to flee the scene of the accident,” it added.
The escaped inmate has been identified as 30-year-old Dahiru Mohammed of Askiwari village in Tarmuwa Local Government Area. He bears prison number J/1539/24 and was admitted into custody on November 29, 2024.
The command described Mohammed as dangerous and urged members of the public to steer clear of him.
“The escaped individual is considered dangerous and members of the public are advised not to have any personal dealings with him,” the statement warned.
It further appealed for information that could lead to his rearrest, urging residents to report any suspicious sighting around the Potiskum–Damaturu axis or elsewhere in the state.
“If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of this individual, or if you spotted anyone suspicious near the site of the accident on the Potiskum–Damaturu road, please report to the nearest police station or correctional facility,” it said.
The command provided emergency contact numbers for the public to assist ongoing efforts to recapture the fugitive.
It also cautioned against aiding or harbouring the escaped inmate, stressing that doing so constitutes a criminal offence punishable under the law.
“Harbouring a fugitive is a serious criminal offence punishable by law. We appreciate the cooperation of the public in ensuring the swift return of the inmate to custody,” the statement added.