NDLEA arrests suspects over failed drug smuggling attempt into Ondo prison
Operatives of the Ondo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) have foiled an attempt to smuggle illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Akure.
The interception occurred during a routine gate search, where correctional officers discovered about four grams of Indian hemp hidden inside fresh tomatoes brought into the facility.
The drugs were reportedly wrapped in water-tight nylon and suspected to have been intended for an inmate.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Wednesday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections, Oyewole Akinwumi, said the suspects involved were immediately apprehended.
He disclosed that the arrested individuals were subsequently handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution, in line with directives from the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.
The Ondo State Controller of Corrections, CC Oyewole Charles (JP), commended the officers for their alertness and professionalism, noting that their actions prevented a serious security breach.
Charles reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to maintain secure, safe and humane custodial facilities, stressing that all forms of illicit substance trafficking within correctional centres would be decisively tackled.
He also warned members of the public and visitors to custodial facilities to desist from any attempt to compromise prison security, adding that offenders would be dealt with according to the law.
The incident mirrors a similar case recently recorded in Kano, where two suspects were arrested for attempting to smuggle drugs to inmates at the Nomansland court complex.
The Nigerian Correctional Service said it remains committed to strengthening security measures nationwide to curb drug-related crimes and other illegal activities within custodial centres.
