One of two Baisu escapees shot dead

Of the two prisoners still on the run after the recent Baisu Correctional Institution breakout, one has been shot dead during a dawn raid by a joint Police and Correctional Service operation, leaving only one escapee still at large.

Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom confirmed it saying the joint operation is another breakthrough in the manhunt that began after 10 National Court remandees escaped from Baisu Correctional Institution earlier this month.

"The joint operation by Police and the Correctional Service has been very successful. Of the 10 prisoners who escaped, nine have now been accounted for, and only one remains outstanding," Chief Superintendent Sagom said.

He said the operation is continuing, with police and Correctional Service officers working together to track down the final escapee.

Chief Superintendent Sagom has called on the remaining fugitive to surrender immediately to the nearest police station or seek the help of a trusted person to notify police.

"I want to tell the last escapee who is still on the run to surrender immediately. It is in your own best interest. If you cannot come directly to police, pass a message through someone you trust so police can pick you up peacefully," he said.

The Provincial Police Commander also warned the public against hiding or helping the remaining escapee.

"The law works both ways. It applies to the escapee and also to anyone who is harbouring him. Police will not hesitate to arrest and charge anyone found assisting this suspect," Chief Superintendent Sagom warned.

Sagom also revealed that one person has already been apprehended for allegedly harboring an escapee (the recent one shot dead) and investigators are preparing the appropriate charges.

Chief Superintendent Sagom added police are confident the final escapee will soon be captured as the joint operation continues.