Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
LONDON, United Kingdom – Police in the UK have launched a major manhunt for a 25-year-old Nigerian man serving a sentence for drug offences after he escaped from a prison transport vehicle in south-east London on Monday, prompting a large-scale security operation across several communities.
Temitope Segun was being transported from Bromley Magistrates’ Court to HMP Thameside on Monday, June 8, 2026, when the escape took place at approximately 6:40 p.m. local time. According to the Metropolitan Police, Segun assaulted a guard and then escaped from the vehicle in the vicinity of Woolwich High Street. Private contractor Serco, which operates the prisoner escort and custody services contract with the Ministry of Justice, confirmed the incident and said an investigation has been launched. A Serco spokesperson stated that one staff member was injured during the incident and is recuperating at home.
At the time of his escape, Segun was wearing a black jacket, black trousers and black trainers. Police believe he has connections to several south-east London communities, including Plumstead, Abbey Wood and Woolwich, where search efforts have been concentrated. Officers have released an image of the fugitive and warned members of the public not to approach him, describing him as “dangerous in the present situation”. Anyone who spots him is urged to call 999 immediately, quoting reference number 2270/10JUN, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Detective Sergeant Claudine Manning, who is leading the operation, said officers were working “around the clock” to locate and apprehend the fugitive. “It is imperative that the public contact police via 999 if they see him – or know where he may be,” she said. “He has links across south London.”
The escape has renewed scrutiny of custodial security procedures in the United Kingdom, particularly following a number of recent incidents involving inmates who have managed to evade custody under varying circumstances. It also has raised diplomatic interest in Nigeria, where the High Commission has been informed and is monitoring the situation.
As of Wednesday evening, the search was ongoing and the fugitive remained at large.
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