Manhunt Underway for Escaped Criminal from Buckinghamshire Prison

Thames Valley Police have initiated a manhunt for a 27-year-old criminal, Mahad Elmi, who escaped from HMP Springhill in Buckinghamshire during the night between Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Authorities have issued a warning to the public advising them not to approach Elmi, who is now classified as “unlawfully at large.”

Elmi, described as a black man approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, has a medium build, medium length black hair, a beard, and brown eyes. He is believed to have connections to south-west London. HMP Springhill is a Category D men’s open resettlement prison located in the village of Grendon Underwood, where inmates are prepared for eventual release and may be granted day release to work or maintain family relationships.

Approximately 330 prisoners reside at HMP Springhill, with most sharing cells. Detective Sergeant Matthew French from Buckinghamshire’s Priority Crime Team emphasized the importance of public assistance in locating Elmi. He 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. If you see Elmi, do not approach him and call 999 instead. If you have any information as to where Elmi may be, please call 101 or make a report online, quoting reference number 43250653119.”

Authorities Urge Caution

The police have also made it clear that Elmi should not be approached under any circumstances, urging anyone who spots him to contact law enforcement immediately. The escape underscores concerns surrounding prison security and the management of inmates classified for resettlement.

In a separate incident, an urgent manhunt is currently active for another prisoner, Ethan Black, who escaped from HMP Sudbury in Derbyshire by climbing a fence around 20:15 on December 17. Authorities have issued similar warnings regarding his potential sighting, emphasizing public safety and cooperation.

As these incidents unfold, the Thames Valley Police remain committed to ensuring community safety and apprehending those unlawfully at large. The public’s vigilance is crucial in these situations, as authorities work diligently to return both Elmi and Black to custody.