A large-scale manhunt is underway in Australia's Northern Territory for Isaac Thompson, 26, who escaped from police custody on Sunday night. Thompson remains at large more than 36 hours after he fled while being escorted from an ambulance to the emergency department at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Thompson, described as a known associate of the Mongols bikie gang, was reportedly wearing only shorts, socks, and handcuffs when he escaped. He was due to appear in Darwin Local Court on Monday for a directions hearing concerning charges that include possession of a commercial quantity of drugs, possession of property in the commission of an offense, and carrying a controlled weapon. Thompson had been in custody since February.
Northern Territory Police confirmed on Tuesday morning that Thompson is still at large and warned the public against approaching him. The Fugitive Taskforce, Strike Force Trident, and the Dog Operations Unit are involved in the extensive search. Police urged Thompson to turn himself in.
Thompson was last seen running along Rocklands Road. Members of the public who spot him are advised to call Triple Zero immediately and not to approach him.
This incident marks the third escape of a Mongols-linked prisoner from custody in the Northern Territory in less than a month. In response, the Department of Corrections has launched an internal investigation and stated that a full review will be conducted into the circumstances surrounding the escapes.