One person has been confirmed dead after suspected thugs attacked a vehicle transporting inmates and personnel of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday along Aba Road, around the Oil Mill Market area, while the vehicle was conveying inmates and correctional officers to court.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Jane Osuji, spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), said preliminary findings showed that the vehicle encountered a traffic jam before some individuals allegedly attacked it.
Osuji explained that members of the armed escort team reportedly fired warning shots into the air while attempting to repel the attackers and protect the inmates. The gunfire resulted in the fatal incident.
The correctional service expressed sympathy to the family of the deceased and others affected by the incident.
The agency condemned the attack, describing such actions as a threat to public safety and an obstruction to the lawful performance of official duties.
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It also confirmed that all inmates involved in the movement were safely returned to the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Port Harcourt.
According to the statement, relevant security authorities have commenced investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine responsibility in accordance with the law.
The NCoS pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities and urged members of the public to remain calm, respect law enforcement operations and avoid actions that could worsen the situation.
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