Nigeria On Alert After Mass Prison Break In Niger Republic

A prison break in Niger Republic could lead to some of the escapees, notably terrorists and bandits crossing the border into Nigeria, the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS has warned

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has put all border control units on high alert following a massive prison break in Niger Republic that led to the escape of notorious terrorists, bandits and other criminals. In a circular dated July 12, 2024, the Deputy Comptroller General of Border Management warned that some of the escapees could be trying to find their way across the border into NIgeria.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service NIS is in receipt of information on the subject matter which took place at Koutoukalé prison in Niger on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, that led to the escape of hundreds of terrorists, criminals, and drug traffickers.

Consequently, all Comptrollers of Commands and OCs of Formations along the Niger-Nigeria border are instructed to be on red alert. With the intent of ensuring that you track all suspicious movements and arrest any such prison escapee and report same to the Service Headquarters.

This circular becomes very important as it is suspected that such criminal elements may sneak into Nigeria to join other terrorist gangs to continue to perpetrate mayhem and menace in Nigeria.

All officers working with the Nigerian border with Niger are therefore expected to increase their vigilance and partner with other security agencies in tracking these fleeing terrorists. Ensure strict compliance, please.”

This alert comes after a dramatic escape at Koutoukalé prison near Niamey, Niger’s capital. Hundreds of Boko Haram terrorists, along with other dangerous criminals and drug traffickers, overpowered guards, seized weapons and vehicles, and broke out of the prison. This has thrown Niger into chaos and raised serious security concerns in the region.

Niger has been struggling with terrorism and instability, especially after a recent coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Now, with these dangerous individuals on the loose, the situation has become even more critical.

Authorities in Niger are investigating how the prisoners got weapons and managed to escape. They have imposed a curfew in the Tillabéri region and put the River Niger region on high alert, urging the public to report any suspicious activities.

The escape has caused alarm in neighboring Nigeria. The NIS circular highlights the threat posed by the escapees, who might try to enter Nigeria and join existing terrorist groups.

The NIS has called for increased vigilance and cooperation with other security agencies to prevent these criminals from causing further trouble.

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