Awaiting trial prisoner escapes from hospital in Durban

Warning:

This article may contain graphic and/or adult content unsuitable for minors and sensitive readers.

Police in Durban are looking for a trial awaiting prisoner who escaped from lawful custody on Saturday.

Spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele says the 40-year-old Lee Richard Barratt was admitted to hospital for medical attention and managed to evade the police officer guarding him.

She says Barratt escaped shortly after his consultation with medical staff.

He is awaiting trial on a charge of housebreaking at Greenwood Park in Durban North.

Mbele says Barratt will now also face a charge of escaping from custody.