The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Ogun State Command, has arrested a female visitor, identified as Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi, for allegedly attempting to smuggle suspected illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Ibara, Abeokuta.
Sowunmi was arrested at about 1:33 p.m. on Friday during routine screening at the facility’s main entrance.
According to the NCoS, officers discovered a suspicious substance concealed inside a 1kg sachet of Milo beverage powder. The substance is suspected to be “Colos”, a psychoactive synthetic drug.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Odukoya Olayinka, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Monday.
Olayinka said the suspect was allegedly attempting to deliver the package to an inmate, Dare Sowunmi, who is being held at the facility on death row.
Following the interception, 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 officers at the facility for detecting the suspected contraband and maintaining strict security procedures.
Adesina reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance policy on drug trafficking and the introduction of prohibited items into custodial facilities.
He warned that anyone caught attempting to smuggle contraband into the facilities would face legal consequences.
“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,” Adesina said.
The NCoS urged members of the public to respect security procedures and the integrity of custodial institutions.
