Calabar Prison Inmates Attack Guards, Brake Into Armory

Some inmates of the Calabar Prison, the Cross River State capital, South Southern Nigeria, Friday forcefully gained entrance into the Prison’s armory, in a bid to regain their freedom after a gun battle between them and armed security guards.

The gun exchanges occasioned commotion in areas such as Afokang, Iman and Jebbs on Calabar South axis of the metropolis, making residents ran for safety.

In the battle, which occurred late Friday morning, Afokang end of the prison fence was broken, leaving two inmates to escape.

Although, the State Comptroller of Prisons, Mr. Clement Udosen denied no inmate escaped, yet, could not confirm how they (inmates) gained access into the armory. A total of 53 riffles stolen by the prisoners were recovered.

The prison squad was reportedly said to have been overpowered but they immediately called for reinforcement and the situation was brought under control after 40 minutes of gun duel with the inmates.

The prisoners who wrestled the armed security officials, though called for reinforcement, sources indicated included about 17 criminals, including kidnappers, drug barons, ex-militants and armed robbers brought to the prison a fortnight ago.