A total of 400 persons are presently in Awka Prison in the capital of Anambra State even though they have yet to be tried for any crimes.

This was revealed by the Deputy Comptroller of Awka Prisons, Mr. E. O. Oguejiofor, when the State Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi, visited the facility. He disclosed that many of the awaiting trial prisoners were accused of involvement in various crimes such as murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, rape and arson.

According to Oguejiofor, some of the awaiting trial inmates have spentup to nine years in prison custody.

Those identified to have spent up to nine years include John Ezeukwu, Chukwuma Okeke, Ebele Umeaduagu, Cletus Agwu, Obioma Okanu and Moses Nwana Aforcha, who have been detained since 2004.

During the visit, Justice Umeadi held a special court session within the premises during which very old detainees were granted bail.

•Photo courtesy 247Ureports shows Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi (M).