Authorities in Nepal have confirmed the rearrest of two Nigerian nationals who escaped from prison during a wave of protests that recently rocked parts of the country. The inmates, whose names have not yet been disclosed, were among several prisoners who took advantage of the unrest to break free from custody.
According to police reports, the jailbreak occurred when demonstrators clashed with security forces outside the correctional facility, creating chaos that allowed some inmates to flee. Law enforcement officers immediately launched a manhunt, with intensified security operations across Kathmandu and surrounding regions to track down the escapees.
After days of surveillance and intelligence gathering, the fugitives were eventually captured in separate raids. Officials disclosed that the Nigerians had been hiding in a rented apartment in a densely populated area, where they were apprehended without resistance. Both men are now back in custody, and authorities say additional security measures have been put in place to prevent a recurrence.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about prison security in Nepal, especially during periods of civil unrest. Rights activists argue that overcrowded facilities and inadequate staffing make prisons vulnerable to breaches, while security analysts stress the need for tighter coordination between law enforcement and prison authorities.
Nepal’s Home Ministry has assured the public that an investigation is underway to determine whether the jailbreak was aided by negligence or internal collaboration. Officials also warned that anyone found complicit in helping the escapees would face prosecution.
The Nigerian Embassy in Nepal has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but diplomatic sources indicated that they are monitoring the case closely. The embassy is expected to engage with Nepalese authorities to ensure due process is followed in line with international protocols.
The jailbreak and subsequent rearrest highlight the broader impact of Nepal’s ongoing protests, which have disrupted daily life and strained the country’s security apparatus. Observers say the swift capture of the Nigerians may help restore public confidence, but many believe the government must do more to address the root causes of both the unrest and the prison system’s vulnerabilities.
