Auckland Prisoner Still Missing After Escaping Hospital Escort

Authorities in Auckland are searching for a prisoner who escaped custody during a hospital escort last week, and has now been missing for four days.

Mt Eden Prison

The individual, who had been held at Mt Eden Corrections Facility, disappeared shortly before 9am on Friday while being taken for medical treatment. Police were alerted immediately and continue to search for the escapee.

Acting general manager Edith Pattinson said staff are working closely with police to locate the prisoner as soon as possible.
“We encourage anyone with information about the prisoners’ location to contact police on 111,” she said.
“Public safety is our top priority. Any escape is unacceptable and an immediate review into how this incident occurred is being carried out.”

It is understood the prisoner had been in restraints at the time of the escort, raising questions about how the escape occurred. Corrections has launched an internal investigation into the circumstances.

Police are urging the public not to approach the individual if seen, and to report any sightings immediately.