Two arrested for attempted drug smuggling into Ondo prison
Two men have been arrested in Ondo State for allegedly attempting to smuggle illicit drugs into a prison facility in Akure, in a case that highlights ongoing efforts to tighten security and prevent contraband from reaching inmates. The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Ondo State Command, uncovered the plot on January 14, 2026 during a routine security screening at the entrance of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Olokuta, where correctional officers discovered about four grams of suspected Indian hemp hidden inside fresh tomatoes brought into the facility.
The illicit substance had reportedly been carefully wrapped in watertight nylon and was allegedly intended for delivery to an inmate in custody, prompting the immediate arrest of the two visitors who carried the concealed drugs. After their apprehension by correctional officers, the suspects were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution, in line with directives aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s custodial facilities and stamping out drug trafficking linked to prisons.
Officials commended the vigilance and professionalism of the officers on duty for foiling the smuggling attempt, reinforcing the command’s commitment to maintaining secure and humane custodial centres while preventing illegal substances from entering the prison system. Authorities also warned members of the public, especially visitors to correctional facilities, that attempts to transport drugs or contraband are serious offences that will not be tolerated and could result in criminal charges.
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