19 January 2008
Waikato Police searching for three men on the run since breaking out of an escort vehicle this morning have been joined by a dog handler from Rotorua as the search continues into the afternoon.
Hamilton City Area Commander, Inspector Rob Lindsay, said the trio were all remand prisoners who had managed to break out of a Police escort van taking them to Waikeria Prison.
"They've exited the van at the lights on Ohaupo Rd at the intersection with Urlich Ave about 10.30am.
"From there it appears they've made their way into a bushy gully off Pine Ave, at the time there were three other inmates in the rear compartment with these men who opted to remain in the vehicle," said Mr Lindsay.
Several units from across Hamilton converged on the Melville area establishing cordons and searching areas where locals had reported seeing the men.
Given the extensive area involved an additional Police Dog and handler arrived from Rotorua early this afternoon to allow the search to continue.
"In situations like these the dogs are under intense pressure so it was judged necessary to bring in an extra dog to maintain the tempo," said Mr Lindsay.
While the search for the men continues an operational review is underway to determine how the men escaped and how to prevent a reoccurrence.
"We've identified the method of escape and we're happy that we've mitigated further risk but we're not in a position to discuss the details of the escape for security reasons," he said.
Members of the public are warned not to approach the men and if they see anything suspicious to phone Police.
With Police dogs tracking various properties residents are asked to remain inside their homes so as not to spoil any spoor and for safety reasons.
"As in any of these situations we advise the public to be cautious and not approach the men, if you see anything suspicious phone 111 immediately," said Mr Lindsay.
The trio are; Thomas TE RANGI, 19, aka Steely TERANGI, a male Maori of medium build, 170cm tall last seen wearing a grey sweatshirt.
Darren William SNOWDEN, 22, a male Maori of medium build 168cm tall with long braided hair wearing dark pants and a dark grey T-shirt with an orange/red WS on it.
Richard Thomas JOSEPH, aka Richard MIDWOOD, 30, a male Maori 168cm tall of thin-medium build last seen wearing shorts and a white singlet.
End