The Ondo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service has thwarted an attempt to smuggle illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Akure after officers uncovered about four grams of Indian hemp concealed inside fresh tomatoes.
The discovery was made during a routine gate search, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Oyewole Akinwumi.
The statement explained that the substance was carefully packaged in water-tight nylon and intended for delivery to an inmate in custody.
Following the interception, the suspects involved were immediately arrested and handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and possible prosecution, in line with directives from the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.
The statement noted that the swift action reflected the Nigerian Correctional Service’s policy of maintaining tight security and safeguarding custodial facilities.
The Controller of Corrections in Ondo State, CC Oyewole Charles (JP), praised the officers on duty for their alertness and professionalism, describing the interception as a clear demonstration of the command’s resolve to prevent the circulation of illicit substances within correctional centres.
He reaffirmed the service’s commitment to operating secure and humane custodial facilities while eliminating all forms of drug trafficking within the correctional system.
The command also warned members of the public, especially visitors to custodial centres, that it would not tolerate any attempt to compromise the safety and security of its facilities, whether from inside or outside the prison walls.
The development comes against the backdrop of a similar incident earlier reported in Kano, where the Nigerian Correctional Service arrested two suspects who allegedly attempted to smuggle Indian hemp and other illicit drugs to inmates at the Nomansland court complex.
