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Immigration Detainee Escapes Custody from Sydney Hospital, Search Underway

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Man Escapes from Custody at Sydney Hospital, Search Underway

A 30-year-old man being held for deportation escaped from custody at a hospital in Western Sydney on Wednesday morning. A multi-agency police search is underway, and the public has been advised not to approach the individual.

Incident Details

On Wednesday morning, Michael Angok, 30, was transported from the Villawood Immigration Detention Centre to Bankstown Hospital in Sydney's south-west. He escaped from the hospital on foot shortly after 9:30 AM.

Police were notified and initiated a search. Personal items belonging to Angok were discovered discarded on Gallipoli Road. As of the latest reports, he has not been located.

Police Response and Investigation

New South Wales Police deployed several specialist units to locate Angok, including the Raptor Squad, PolAir, the Dog Unit, and the Operations Support Group.

Detective Superintendent Brett Van Akker stated that the public was not immediately notified of the escape. He explained that police initially delayed the announcement to pursue other avenues for apprehension and to avoid potentially hindering the investigation.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has issued a warrant for Angok's arrest. Detective Acting Inspector Stuart Kimble of the AFP confirmed the warrant.

Background on the Individual

Court records show Michael Angok was convicted in February 2014 for the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl in a Doonside park, an offense committed alongside two other men. He was released from custody in 2017 after serving a minimum non-parole period of two years.

Authorities stated that Angok was in immigration detention and was scheduled for deportation from Australia. Detective Superintendent Van Akker described Angok as "well known" to police.

Public Description and Advisory

Police have issued the following description of Michael Angok:

  • Appearance: Described as being of African appearance.
  • Height: Approximately 175cm to 180cm tall.
  • Build: Thin.
  • Hair: Short black hair.
  • Clothing: He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, grey tracksuit pants, and white 'Croc'-style sandals.

Authorities believe Angok may use public transportation and has previous ties to the Blacktown area.

The public is advised not to approach him if seen but to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately with any information.