Forty-seven inmates have escaped from a maximum security prison in Margibi County, a rural area located east of Liberia’s capital, Monrovia, the Ministry of Justice announced on Monday.
Preliminary investigations suggest the escape occurred over the weekend due to a breach in the prison’s security system, according to the ministry’s statement.
“The Ministry of Justice is deeply concerned about this incident and is taking all necessary measures to ensure the recapture of the escaped inmates,” the statement said.
In response, additional security officers have been deployed to assist in the search for the fugitives. The ministry also urged the public to remain calm and to report any information that might help locate the prisoners.
The ministry called on the escapees to voluntarily surrender to the nearest police station or prison authorities, warning that failure to do so could result in additional charges.
