Inmate Escapes Custody During Court Appearance In Edo

An awaiting-trial inmate, Osita Thomas, 28, has escaped from custody throughout a court docket look in Edo State, prompting the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to launch a manhunt for his recapture.

Thomas was being held on the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Auchi and was dropped at court docket final week to face trial for alleged conspiracy and stealing.

The Edo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service disclosed the escape in an announcement dated October 21, 2026, signed by its Public Relations Officer, Aminu Suleman.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service, Edo State Command, hereby notifies the general public of the escape of an awaiting trial inmate of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Auchi,” the assertion mentioned.

According to the command, the incident occurred whereas Thomas was showing in court docket for trial over the alleged offences.

The correctional service appealed to members of the general public to supply credible data that would result in his arrest.

It urged anybody with details about his whereabouts to report back to the closest custodial centre or police station.

“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 assertion added.