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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Authorities of the Nigeria Correctional Centre have launched a manhunt for an awaiting-trial inmate, Osita Thomas, who escaped from court premises in Edo State.
The 28-year-old inmate who was awaiting trial at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Auchi was said to have been taken to court last week for trial but the court declined to grant him bail.
He was said to have escaped shortly after the court sitting. It was learnt that the warden who took Osita and others to court could not pursue him to avoid other inmates escaping.
Meanwhile, an official of the NCC has blamed Osita’s escape on dearth of manpower at the correctional centre.
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He disclosed that over 1,000 personnel of the NCC would be retiring this year without any plans to recruit new personnel.
The Edo State Command of the NCC in a statement signed by its spokesman, Aminu Suleman, said Osita escaped during his appearance in court for trial for the offence of conspiracy and stealing.
“The Service solicits the cooperation of the general public to recapture the fugitive. Anyone with useful information about his whereabouts should please contact the nearest custodial centre or police station, or call the following numbers: 08038075882, 08039243704.
“The Controller of Corrections, Edo State Command, assures the general public that no effort will be spared to recapture the fugitive, while security of all inmates in custody has been strengthened,” the statement said.
