The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has confirmed that at least 47 inmates last week escaped the Kakata Central Prison in Kakata, Margibi County. The Ministry in a press release on Monday, September 9, 2024, said initial investigations reveal that the inmates were able to escape due to a breach in the prison’s security system, and the Ministry is working closely with the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the prison authorities to determine the exact cause of the breach and take appropriate action to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Ministry said it is deeply concerned about the incident and is taking all necessary measures to ensure the recapture of the escaped inmates. The release said that the LNP has deployed additional officers to assist in the search and apprehension of the escaped inmates.
“The Ministry of Justice assures the public that all efforts are being made to ensure the safety and security of the citizens and to bring the escaped inmates to justice,” the release said; while urging the public to remain calm and to report any information that may lead to the recapture of the inmates as harboring or aiding such persons is a criminal offense and anyone found guilty will face the full force of the law.
“We also call on the escaped inmates to surrender themselves to the nearest police station or to the prison authorities to avoid facing additional charges,” the Justice Ministry stressed, adding, it will not condone any lawlessness and will ensure that justice is served.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice has vowed to continue providing updates as the search for the escaped inmates continues, and hailed the public for its continued support and cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
