The Nigerian Correctional Service, Ogun State Command, has arrested one, Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi, over an alleged attempt to smuggle suspected illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Ibara, Abeokuta.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the NCS,
Odukoya Owolola Olayinka, and obtained by Tribune Online, on Monday.
The PRO explained that the incident happened on Friday afternoon, during routine screening procedures at the facility’s main entry point.
Odukoya said the illicit substance believed to be a psychoactive synthetic drug commonly known as “Colos,” was concealed within a sachet of a popular beverage powder.
The suspect, according to the statement, was attempting to deliver the package to an inmate, Dare Sowunmi, who is currently on death row.
The statement said, “Following the interception, officers immediately detained Mrs. Sowunmi, and in accordance with inter-agency operational protocols, she has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.”
The Controller of the Corrections, Ogun State Command, Abioye Kamoru Adesina, while reacting to the development, commended the security personnel for their vigilance and adherence to security protocols.
“Our custodial facilities exist to ensure public safety, reformation, and rehabilitation. We maintain an absolute zero-tolerance policy for drug trafficking or any illegal acts designed to compromise security,” Controller Adesina stated. “Attempts to introduce contraband into our facilities will be met with swift legal action,” the NSC boss said.
The Nigerian Correctional Service urged the general public to respect the integrity of custodial institutions, warning that any individual seeking to undermine security would face the full weight of the law.