The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Ogun State Command, has arrested a woman, Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi, over an alleged attempt to smuggle a suspected psychoactive substance into the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Ibara, Abeokuta.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon during routine screening at the main entrance of the custodial facility, according to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Odukoya Owolola Olayinka, and obtained by the Nigerian Tribune on Monday.
The NCS said its officers intercepted a suspected illicit substance believed to be “Colos”, a psychoactive synthetic drug, which was allegedly concealed inside a sachet of a popular beverage powder.
According to the statement, Sowunmi was attempting to deliver the package to an inmate identified as Dare Sowunmi, who is currently on death row at the facility.
“Following the interception, officers immediately detained Mrs. Sowunmi, and in accordance with inter-agency operational protocols, she has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for comprehensive investigation and prosecution,” the statement said.
Reacting to the development, the Controller of Corrections, Ogun State Command, Abioye Kamoru Adesina, commended the officers and other security personnel involved for their vigilance and strict adherence to established security protocols.
Adesina reaffirmed the command’s zero-tolerance policy towards the introduction of illicit drugs and 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.
“Attempts to introduce contraband into our facilities will be met with swift legal action,” he said.
The NCS urged members of the public to respect the security protocols governing custodial institutions, warning that individuals found attempting to compromise the safety and integrity of such facilities would face the full weight of the law.
The suspect’s handover to the NDLEA is expected to pave the way for further investigation into the alleged attempt and possible prosecution in accordance with applicable laws.
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