Police have launched an urgent manhunt after a prisoner escaped from a prison transport van in south east London.
Temitope Segun, 25, was last seen near Woolwich High Street at about 6.40pm on Monday after fleeing while being transported from court to prison.
The Metropolitan Police said Segun, who is serving a sentence for supplying Class A drugs, escaped after allegedly assaulting a custody officer while being taken from Bromley Magistrates Court to HMP Thameside.
Detectives say he was last seen wearing a black jacket, black trousers and black trainers. He is believed to have links to Woolwich, Plumstead and Abbey Wood, as well as other areas across south London.
Detective Sergeant Claudine Manning, who is leading the investigation, said: “My team of dedicated officers are working around the clock to trace and apprehend Temitope Segun.
“It is imperative that the public contact police via 999 if they see him or know where he may be.”
Scotland Yard has urged members of the public not to approach Segun and instead call 999 immediately, quoting reference 2270/10JUN.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 using the same reference number.
Private contractor Serco confirmed it was transporting the prisoner at the time of the escape and said an investigation is underway.
A Serco spokesperson said: “An incident occurred on the evening of Monday 8 June in Woolwich. The matter is under investigation.”
The company added that one member of staff was injured during the incident and is recovering at home.
Serco operates prisoner escort and custody services under a Ministry of Justice contract covering the south of England.
Police continue to appeal for information as efforts to locate and arrest Segun remain ongoing.
