Nigeria’s security agencies and intelligence personnel are currently on red alert following the jailbreak in the Republic of Niger during which time hardened terrorist Kigpins and other criminals escaped into the open world.
Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that while officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service have been put on alert at all entry points, including airports, seaports, borderlines, intelligence personnel and other security operatives are combing some flashpoints to detect strange movements.
In a circular, dated July 12, the Deputy Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), M. C Dike, admitted that the Service is aware of the jailbreak that took place at Koutoukale prison in Niger on July 11, 2024 “that led to escape of hundreds of terrorists, criminals and drug traffickers.”
Consequently, all Comptrollers of Commands and OCs of Formations along 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 became very important as it is suspected that such criminal elements may sneak into Nigeria to join other terrorists to continue to perpetuate mayhem and menace in Nigeria.
The circular ordered all officers working on the Nigeria/Niger border to increase their vigilance and to partner with other security agencies in tracking the fleeing terrorists.
The circular insisted on “strict compliance with the directive” by all concerned.
According to Reuters, the prison’s inmates who escaped during the jailbreak include detainees from the West African country’s conflict with armed groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
The prison, located near the capital city of Niamey, was the scene of a violent mutiny that overwhelmed guards and allowed inmates to escape with weapons and vehicles on July 11.
Heavy gunshots and explosions were heard inside the prison around midday, prompting a quick response from security forces.
The inmates had already gained control of the prison, breaking through armoured gates, barbed wire, and trenches.
The interior ministry could not specify in its statement how many prisoners managed to escape in the jailbreak.
The ministry however asked village chiefs and religious leaders to report any suspicious individuals.
Niger and its neighbours – Mali and Burkina Faso, all under military rule, have been battling to contain increasing jihadist attacks.
It was earlier reported that at least 14 soldiers were killed and 11 others wounded in an attack by suspected jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda in the Tillaberi region.
