38-Year-Old Prisoner Fleeing Lewisham Facility Sparks City-Wide Search

Residents across the capital must remain vigilant as a manhunt for a 38-year-old prisoner enters its second day. The Metropolitan Police have issued a direct warning to the public: do not approach the suspect and call 999 immediately if he is spotted. This guidance is intended to protect both civilians and the individual, who was released from a medical facility in south-east London on Friday afternoon.

Anthony Lloyd forced his way out of the health unit in Lewisham shortly after 4:00 pm on Friday. His last confirmed sighting occurred at approximately 4:10 pm, when he was observed heading toward Catford. Although the escape happened in a specific borough, officers now believe Lloyd could be anywhere in the city. They are treating the search as a significant inquiry to ensure his swift return to custody.

The urgency of the situation is driven by Lloyd’s recent criminal history and current status. He is a white male, roughly 5ft 8in tall, with a medium build and short dark hair. At the time of his escape, he was dressed in a grey-blue T-shirt, black tracksuit bottoms, and white trainers. Police have highlighted that he poses a risk to both himself and the public, a statement that underscores the need for careful public engagement.

Lloyd’s journey to this medical facility began in 2025 when he was convicted of actual bodily harm. The offense stemmed from an incident in Nottinghamshire that involved three emergency services workers. He received a 12-month custodial sentence and was initially sent to prison. By September, he had been transferred to the Lewisham medical unit, where the escape took place.

Detective Superintendent Melanie Pressley is leading the operation. She emphasized that officers are conducting various significant inquiries to locate Lloyd. Her public appeal stresses that while the police are working hard, public assistance is critical. She urged anyone with information, no matter how minor, to contact the force as a matter of urgency to help narrow the search area.

The scope of the search extends beyond London due to Lloyd’s connections to other regions. Police noted that he has links to Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley, Hampshire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Merseyside. These geographical ties may influence where he attempts to hide or travel. For those with details, the reference number CAD4739/23Oct should be quoted when calling 999.

The incident highlights the complexities of managing prisoners with medical needs who are in the final stages of their sentences. With the suspect now on the loose in a major metropolitan area, the focus remains on a coordinated effort between law enforcement and the community to ensure safety until he is back in custody.