Prison service launches massive manhunt as 21-inmate escape

Prison spokesman Modou Lamin Ceesay has confirmed that The Gambia Prison Service has launched a massive manhunt after 21 people escaped from Jeshwang prison.

In August 2018, a total number of 23 prisoners have reportedly escaped during a major prison break at the remand wing of the Jeshwang Prison, where eight prison officers that were on duties had been arrested in connection with the matter.

According to The Fatu Network, the Prison spokesman Modou Lamin Ceesay confirmed last week’s jailbreak, saying is true but it is not a jailbreak because jailbreak involves a high number of prisoners. He said it was just one cell out of the lot.

 “The officers failed in their coordination and the prisoners putting the officers’ strength into consideration took advantage of the situation while the cells were opened by the afternoon duties officers.”

He added that the number of prisoners that attempted to escape was 29, while the prison officers were five in number.

“The eight were captured, so as we are speaking there are 21 that are at large,” Mr. Ceesay said.