The Ogun State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on contraband following the arrest of a female visitor allegedly attempting to smuggle suspected illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ibara, Abeokuta.
The suspect, identified as Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi, was arrested at about 1:33 p.m. on Friday during routine screening at the facility’s entrance.
Correctional officers allegedly found suspicious substances concealed inside a 1kg sachet of Milo beverage powder.
The NCoS said preliminary findings indicated that the substance was suspected to be “Colos”, a psychoactive synthetic drug.
The substance was allegedly intended for an inmate, Dare Sowunmi, who is currently on death row at the facility.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Odukoya Olayinka, confirmed the incident to journalists on Monday.
He said the suspect was detained and later handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The State Controller of Corrections, Abioye Adesina, commended the officers for their vigilance and adherence to security procedures.
Adesina warned that the Command would not tolerate attempts to introduce drugs or other prohibited items into custodial facilities.
“Our custodial facilities exist to ensure public safety, reformation and rehabilitation. We maintain an absolute zero-tolerance policy for drug trafficking or any illegal acts designed to compromise security,” he said.
He further warned that anyone caught smuggling contraband into correctional facilities would face the full weight of the law.
“Any attempt to introduce contraband into our facilities will be met with swift legal action,” Adesina added.
The Command also urged members of the public to comply with established security procedures when visiting inmates.
The incident highlights the continued challenge of attempts to smuggle prohibited substances into Nigeria’s custodial facilities despite heightened security measures.
