Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Inmate escapes after prison vehicle crashes in Yobe

The road crash occurred along Potiskum-Damatu on April 13. 

• April 16, 2026
Dahiru Mohammed
Dahiru Mohammed

The Nigerian Correction Service has confirmed the escape of Dahiru Mohammed, a 30-year old prisoner while transporting them from Medium Second Custodial Centre in Potiskum to Damaturu in Yobe State.

The fugitive, who hails from Askiwari village in Tarmuwa Local Government Area, was admitted into custody on November 29, 2024 with J/1539/24 prison identification number.

The road crash occurred along Potiskum-Damatu on April 13, according to Abdullahi Adamu, the spokesman for Nigerian Correctional Service. 

“The incident happened on April 13 when the vehicle conveying the inmates was involved in a crash along the Potiskum–Damaturu route. Amid efforts to assist victims of the accident, one of the inmates reportedly took advantage of the situation and fled.”

“The fugitive has been identified as 30-year-old Dahiru Mohammed, a native of Askiwari village in Tarmuwa Local Government Area. He was admitted into custody on November 29, 2024, and bears prison identification number J/1539/24,” Mr Adamu said.

Mr Adamu described the escapee as dangerous and warned members of the public to avoid any form of contact with him.

The correctional service urged residents to promptly report any useful information about his whereabouts to the nearest police station or custodial centre. 

It also advised vigilance, particularly around the accident scene and surrounding areas.

“Emergency contact lines have been provided to aid information sharing, while officials cautioned that anyone found harbouring the fugitive would face legal consequences,” the statement added.

The NCoS further urged public cooperation to ensure the inmate is quickly rearrested and returned to custody.

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