A manhunt is underway following the escape of a prisoner from an open facility between Christmas and Boxing Day. Mahad Elmi, aged 27, did not return to HMP Springhill in Buckinghamshire after leaving overnight or early Friday morning. Thames Valley Police stated that he is now unlawfully at large and should not be approached by the public. Elmi, a black man standing around 5ft 8in tall with medium build, medium-length black hair, a beard, and brown eyes, is known to have connections to south-west London.
Detective Sergeant Matthew French from the Priority Crime Team urged the public to help locate Elmi, emphasizing not to approach him but to immediately contact authorities by dialing 999 if spotted. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to call 101 or submit a report online, referencing case number 43250653119.
HMP Springhill, a Category D men’s open prison with minimal security, can accommodate approximately 335 inmates as per MyLondon. Eligible prisoners are allowed to leave during the day for work or educational purposes.