Manhunt for Algerian prisoner released in error from HMP Wandsworth

A manhunt is underway after a prisoner was mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth in south London on October 29, the Metropolitan Police said on Tuesday, prompting fresh questions about prison release procedures just days after a separate high-profile wrongful release. The man, described by police as a 24-year-old Algerian, was freed in error and remains at large while officers carry out urgent enquiries to locate him and return him to custody.

"Shortly after 1pm on Tuesday 4 November, the Met was informed by the Prison Service that a prisoner had been released in error from HMP Wandsworth on Wednesday 29 October," a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said. The statement confirmed only the age, nationality and erroneous release; several reports cited officials saying the prisoner had been serving a sentence for trespass with intent to steal and had prior sexual offences on his record. The Met has not disclosed the man's name.

Police notification came almost a week after the release, and the delay in informing the force has raised concern among local officials and residents. Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, the Labour MP for Tooting where Wandsworth is located, said she was "horrified" and...