By Ijeoma G. | Stone Reporter News
British authorities have launched an urgent nationwide manhunt following the escape of Ola Abimbola, a 36-year-old Nigerian serving a 21-year sentence for kidnapping, grievous bodily harm, blackmail, and false imprisonment.
Abimbola reportedly walked out of HMP Ford, an open prison in Sussex, around 8 a.m. on October 10, only weeks after being transferred under new government rules allowing early movement of inmates to low-security facilities aimed at reducing overcrowding. He has remained at large since the escape.
Sussex Police have issued urgent appeals to the public, warning against approaching the fugitive and advising anyone with information to call 999 immediately.
The incident has sparked political backlash against Justice Secretary David Lammy, following other recent high-profile errors, including the mistaken release of sex offenders and fraudsters. Critics argue that the government’s relaxed prison transfer policy may be jeopardizing public safety.
Experts from the Prison Governors’ Association warn that an increasing number of high-risk prisoners are now being placed in open prisons, raising concerns about security. The Ministry of Justice, however, insists that all transfers undergo strict risk evaluation, and offenders who breach terms can be immediately returned to closed conditions.
Abimbola’s escape has intensified the ongoing debate in Britain over the delicate balance between rehabilitation and public safety in the criminal justice system, highlighting the challenges of reforming overcrowded prisons while protecting communities.
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