Police Launch Search for Prisoner Who Absconded from Open Prison Over Christmas

Police have appealed to the public for help tracing a prisoner who absconded from an open prison in Buckinghamshire during the Christmas period.

Thames Valley Police said Mahad Elmi, 27, left HMP Spring Hill in Grendon Underwood, near Aylesbury, sometime between Christmas Day and the early hours of Boxing Day.

Officers said Elmi no longer has any lawful authority to be in the community and is now considered unlawfully at large. An investigation was launched after prison staff reported that he had failed to return as expected, prompting police to issue a public appeal.

Elmi is described as being about 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build, with medium length black hair, a beard and brown eyes. Police said he is known to have links to parts of London, including Lambeth and Wembley, and may attempt to travel to those areas.

HMP Spring Hill is an open prison, where inmates are assessed as presenting a lower risk and may have greater freedom of movement under strict conditions. When someone absconds, police work alongside prison authorities to locate them and ensure public safety.

Thames Valley Police urged anyone who sees Elmi or has information about his whereabouts not to approach him directly, but to contact police immediately. Members of the public can report sightings via the non emergency number or call 999 if they believe he is in immediate proximity.

Police said enquiries are ongoing and thanked the public for their assistance, stressing that information from the community can play a crucial role in locating absconded prisoners.