A woman named Balikis Shobowale was turned over to the police after allegedly being discovered trying to smuggle ethanol into the Ibara Custodial Center in Ogun State through a bottled water pack.
According to the Nigerian Correctional Service, Ogun State Police Command, Shobowale was apprehended by correctional personnel during a routine screening at the facility on Saturday at approximately 3:50 p.m.
Olayinka Odukoya, the command’s public relations officer, revealed this in a statement on Sunday.
According to Odukoya, the suspect allegedly disguised the ethanol as drinking water meant for an inmate by hiding it inside a bottled water pack.
He said that the drug was found before it could enter the prison population.
“At approximately 15:50 hours today, September 26, 2026, vigilant officials at the Ibara Custodial Center intercepted a woman, identified as Shobowale Balikis, in an attempt to smuggle contraband into the facility,” the statement stated.
She was discovered hiding ethanol inside a bottled water pack, passing it off as drinking water meant for a prisoner.
Correctional staff’ quick response made sure the illegal material was found before it could get to the inmates.
“Since then, Shobowale has been turned over to the Nigerian Police for additional investigation; appropriate legal proceedings are anticipated to follow.”
The Service’s zero-tolerance stance regarding the smuggling of contraband into detention facilities was reaffirmed by Abioye Kamoru Adesina, Controller of Corrections, Ogun State Police Command.
According to Adesina, the event showed the command’s commitment to safeguard prisoners, preserve law and order, and preserve the integrity of the criminal justice system.
The public was reassured by the command that it will keep stepping up efforts to stop illegal goods from entering its facilities.


