SLCS Details Status of Inmates After 2023 Prison Break: Over 1,300 Still at Large

By Amin Kef (Rangere)

The Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) has on October 8, 2024 released an official report detailing the situation surrounding the mass escape of inmates from various correctional facilities on November 26, 2023. This comes in response to an inquiry from The Calabash Newspaper regarding the status of the escapees.

In a letter addressed to the Managing Editor of The Calabash, the Acting Director General of SLCS, Brigadier General, Sahr DT Ngaujah confirmed that as of November 26, 2023, a total of 1,919 inmates were in custody. However, following the escape incident, the numbers have drastically changed:

– Total number of inmates escaped: 1,890

– Number of inmates still in custody: 29

– Total inmates recaptured: 514

– Inmates who returned voluntarily: 90

– Number of escapees still at large: 1,376

– Total discharges from the recaptured inmates: 203

– Discharges from voluntary returnees: 56

This alarming statistic highlights the significant challenge faced by the SLCS in managing the aftermath of the escape. The Acting Director General assured that the authorities are actively pursuing the escapees still at large, emphasizing the need for effective law enforcement collaboration.

In December 2023, SLCS first reported the escape of 1,890 inmates, primarily from facilities in Freetown. The Calabash Newspaper’s Managing Editor emphasized the importance of transparent communication in their inquiry, underscoring that timely and accurate information is crucial for public enlightenment.

The Director General’s response not only aims to provide clarity on the current status of the inmates but also seeks to promote trust and understanding within the community regarding the measures taken to address the situation. The SLCS has expressed its commitment to restoring order and ensuring the safety of the public as it works to recapture the remaining escapees.

This developing story remains a critical issue for Sierra Leone and further updates from the SLCS are anticipated as authorities continue their efforts to address the fallout from this significant incident.