Prison Break After Highway Crash: Authorities Launch Manhunt for Escaped Inmate in Yobe.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
April 18, 2026.
Security authorities in northeastern Nigeria have launched an urgent manhunt for a prison inmate who escaped custody following a road accident involving a correctional transport vehicle along the Potiskum–Damaturu highway.
The incident occurred on April 13, 2026, when a vehicle operated by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Yobe State Command, was conveying inmates from the Potiskum Medium Security Custodial Centre to the state capital, Damaturu. According to official reports, the vehicle was involved in a serious crash that caused confusion and panic at the scene.
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Amid rescue efforts by officials and bystanders, one of the inmates, identified as Dahiru Mohammed, seized the moment to escape. Authorities say he slipped away unnoticed during the chaotic aftermath, taking advantage of the disarray as emergency responders worked to assist the injured.
Official Confirmation and Details
The spokesperson for the NCoS in Yobe State, Abdullahi Adamu, confirmed the development in a statement released on Wednesday and reported by Democracy Newsline. He described the escape as a serious breach and assured the public that efforts were underway to apprehend the fugitive.
Dahiru Mohammed is described as a 30-year-old male from Askiwari village in Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State. He had been in custody since November 29, 2024, and is registered under inmate number J/1539/24.
Authorities have issued a strong warning to residents across Yobe State and neighboring communities to remain vigilant. Dahiru Mohammed is considered dangerous, and members of the public are advised not to attempt to confront or engage him under any circumstances.
The Correctional Service emphasized that harboring or assisting an escaped inmate is a serious criminal offense under Nigerian law, punishable by severe penalties.
Citizens with any information regarding the whereabouts of the escaped inmate are urged to report immediately to the nearest police station or correctional office. The NCoS has provided emergency contact numbers for tips and reports:
07038397460
07063348987
08062211873
08038452982
Ongoing Search Efforts
Security agencies have intensified surveillance across major routes and rural communities in Yobe State. Checkpoints are being monitored, and intelligence units are working to track possible movements of the fugitive.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges within custodial logistics and transport safety, particularly in regions where road conditions and emergency response capabilities can complicate secure inmate transfers.
Authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to restoring order and ensuring that Dahiru Mohammed is returned to custody swiftly.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 18TH 2026)
