Liberia Jailbreak: Nigerian Drug Convict Tony Obina Recaptured After Prison Escape

By Our Reporter

A Nigerian national convicted in a major drug-trafficking case in Liberia, Tony Obina, has reportedly been recaptured following his escape from Kakata Central Prison in Margibi County.

Obina was reportedly apprehended by residents and security personnel while attempting to flee, following a jailbreak that triggered a security operation in the West African country.

Prison Escape Triggers Security Operation

Liberia’s Ministry of Justice confirmed that a jailbreak occurred at Kakata Central Prison on September 20, 2026, resulting in the escape of several inmates.

In a statement, the ministry said:

“The Ministry of Justice informs the public that a jailbreak has occurred at the Kakata Central Prison in Margibi County, resulting in the escape of a number of inmates.”

The ministry reported that the Joint Security had been alerted and launched efforts to locate the escapees. Authorities also began verifying prison records to establish the identities and number of inmates who fled.

Tony Obina Reportedly Recaptured

Following the escape, Obina was reportedly located by residents and security personnel while attempting to flee.

News reports and video footage circulating online allegedly showed him being escorted back to the correctional facility. However, the details of his apprehension have not been independently confirmed by an official statement from Liberian authorities.

The Ministry of Justice urged members of the public not to attempt to apprehend or harbour escaped inmates, advising them to report relevant information to security agencies.

Convicted in Major Drug-Trafficking Case

Before his escape, Obina had reportedly been convicted alongside Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency officers Joe Logan and Lovette Flowers by a 12-member jury at the 13th Judicial Circuit Court in Margibi County.

The case involved drugs reportedly valued at approximately US$181,008 and more than L$63.2 million.

The reported recapture comes as Liberian authorities continue efforts to account for inmates who escaped from the prison.

Further details regarding the jailbreak, the status of other escapees, and Obina’s custody are expected from official authorities.

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