The Nigerian Correctional Service has destroyed 1,167 mobile phones and other prohibited items recovered from custodial centres nationwide, in a move aimed at tightening security and curbing illegal activities within correctional facilities.
The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, disclosed this on Tuesday, noting that the seized items were recovered over an eight-month period during coordinated operations across the country.
According to him, the confiscated materials included smartphones, SIM cards, chargers, earpieces, and other unauthorised items that pose a threat to prison security.
“Items like these have no place in our custodial centres. They weaken internal control systems, encourage indiscipline, and provide channels for criminal activities to continue from within custody,” Nwakuche said.
He added that the destruction of the items reflects the Service’s determination to enforce discipline and prevent breaches within its facilities.
The NCoS boss also revealed that a total of ₦2.57 million recovered during the operations had been remitted to government coffers in line with financial regulations.
On internal accountability, Nwakuche stated that 147 officers had been sanctioned for various offences, including involvement in the smuggling of contraband into correctional centres.
“We have taken decisive action against personnel found wanting. A total of 147 staff members have faced disciplinary measures for misconduct, particularly for aiding contraband trafficking. This sends a clear message that accountability will be strictly enforced,” he said.
He further disclosed that several civilians suspected of collaborating in the smuggling operations had been apprehended and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for prosecution, with some already facing trial.
Nwakuche explained that the recoveries were made possible through the activities of a Special Crack Team set up to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement across correctional facilities.
He warned officers, inmates’ relatives, and members of the public against attempting to smuggle prohibited items into prisons, stressing that such actions undermine national security and the justice system.
“Anyone attempting to compromise our facilities by concealing banned items in food, clothing, or personal belongings should desist. Our enforcement measures are firm, and violators will face serious consequences,” he added.
