(Nigerian Correctional Service logo. Photo by punch news)
In an attempt to stop illegal activity within correctional facilities, the Nigerian Correctional Service destroyed 1,167 cell phones and other forbidden things that were found in detention centers throughout the nation on Tuesday.
According to Sylvester Nwakuche, Controller-General of Corrections, the items—which included smartphones, SIM cards, chargers, and other unauthorized materials—were confiscated during the previous eight months.
Items found in detention facilities around the nation during the previous eight months are forbidden. These include SIM cards, cell phones, and other unapproved items.
“It is unacceptable for them to be in our facilities. They undermine security, interfere with discipline, and provide avenues for criminal activity to continue while in detention.
Today, 1,167 mobile phones—including iPhones, Android phones, and button phones—as well as a variety of earpieces, chargers, and other illicit items will be burned.
He stated, “These recoveries highlight the scope of the challenge and the gravity of our response.”
In accordance with financial norms, he noted, ₦2.57 million in cash seized during the raids has been transferred to government coffers.
The CG also disclosed that 147 employees had received sanctions for wrongdoing, including their involvement in the smuggling of illegal goods into detention facilities.
“We have matched policy with action within the Service,” he declared. 147 employees have been disciplined thus far for a variety of wrongdoings, including involvement in the trafficking of illegal goods. This emphasizes a straightforward fact: accountability cannot be compromised. The Service will not shield anyone who undermines its mandate.
You have a clear responsibility, officers and men. Uphold the strictest guidelines for diligence and discipline. In compliance with the law and service standards, any compromise will result in tough and decisive action.
He claims that a number of foreign partners in smuggling operations have been detained and turned over to the Nigeria Police Force and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for prosecution; some of them are currently on trial.
According to Nwakuche, the goods were recovered because the Service established a Special Crack Team to step up intelligence collection, surveillance, and enforcement.
He described contraband smuggling as a threat to national security and the administration of justice and cautioned both staff and the general public against participating in such activities.
“I issue this warning to everyone who interacts with our facilities, including members of the public and the relatives of inmates: do not try to compromise our systems or influence our staff. Avoid hiding forbidden materials in clothing, food, or personal belongings. There will be harsh repercussions and strict enforcement, he declared.
