Police have launched a major manhunt for a prisoner who escaped from jail on Christmas Day. The inmate, identified as Mahad Elmi, 27, fled from HMP Springhill in Buckinghamshire during the night of Thursday, 25 December, into the morning of Friday, 26 December.
Details of the Escape and Public Appeal
Thames Valley Police are leading the search and have issued a public appeal for information regarding Elmi's whereabouts. He is described as a black man, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a medium build. He has medium-length black hair, a beard, and brown eyes. Authorities have noted he is known to have connections to South West London.
Detective Sergeant Matthew French, of the Buckinghamshire Priority Crime Team, stated: ‘We are appealing for the help of the public to trace Mahad Elmi, who is unlawfully at large after leaving and not returning to HMP Springhill.’
Public Warning and How to Report
The police have issued a clear warning to the public. ‘If you see Elmi, do not approach him and call 999 instead,’ DS French urged. For anyone with non-urgent information that could assist the investigation, they are asked to call 101 or make a report online, quoting the reference number 43250653119.
This incident follows another dramatic escape attempt earlier in December, where a newly arrested prisoner, Dylan Harrison, 33, attempted to flee police in South Wales by diving over a wall, resulting in a broken back. Harrison had shouted ‘I’m not going back to jail’ during that incident.
Ongoing Search and Prison Security
The escape from the Category D open prison near Grendon Underwood raises immediate questions about security protocols, particularly over the festive period. The police investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on tracking Elmi's movements since his disappearance. The public are reminded to remain vigilant and report any sightings directly to the authorities.
