NCoS Denies Alleged ₦120m Theft At Kuje Custodial Centre -

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has rejected reports claiming that valuables worth more than ₦120 million were stolen from an inmate during a security operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.

In a statement released by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, the agency described the allegation as false and misleading, insisting that the operation carried out at the facility was a routine security search conducted according to established procedures.

According to the NCoS, officers recovered prohibited items during the exercise and properly documented them in line with standard operational guidelines aimed at maintaining discipline, safety, and order within the custodial centre.

The Service explained that inmates are not allowed to keep unauthorized valuables or large sums of money while in custody. It added that all personal belongings declared by inmates upon admission are officially recorded and kept safely until their release.

The correctional agency further stated that there is no official record showing that any valuables matching the reported ₦120 million were declared or deposited at the Kuje facility.

NCoS also noted that the items mentioned in the online reports fall under prohibited contraband that inmates are not permitted to possess inside correctional centres.

The agency disclosed that no inmate or relative has filed any formal complaint regarding missing valuables or theft connected to the Kuje custodial centre.

Reassuring the public, the Service maintained that the facility remains calm and secure, while urging media organisations and members of the public to verify information through official channels before publishing or spreading sensational claims.

The NCoS reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and ongoing reforms aimed at improving accountability and security across custodial centres nationwide.