Delta confirms escape of 26 inmates from Warri correctional centre

No fewer than 26 inmates have escaped from the Okere-Warri Correctional Centre as #EndSARS Protesters, destroyed the facilities at the centre.

Deputy Controller of the facility, Okonkwo Adimagbua, who confirmed the incident yesterday, said the destruction of the centre aided the escape of 26 of the 1007 inmates.

“When the hoodlums came on October 22, 2020, we thought they were #EndSARS protesters but before we realised what was happening it had became a full-scale destruction. The destruction of the facility aided the escape of 26 of 1007 inmates in the facility before the intervention of security operatives,” he stated.

Deputy Governor of the state, Kingsley Otuaru, while inspecting the facility, lamented the large-scale destruction of the centre that was built some years ago.

“What I seeing here today is quite disheartening. This is a complete destruction of facilities meant for inmates,” he said.

He, however, commended the officers in the facility for showing high level of professionalism in preventing a full jailbreak and assured that state government would assist in ensuring rehabilitation of the structure.

“We own it as a duty to protect our institutions and structures and on no circumstances should anyone take laws into his hand in destroying properties that are our collective effort and heritage,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman of Warri South Council Area, Michael Tidi, said the level of damage at the centre was unimaginable and canvassed robust participation in governnace to prevent future occurrence.