Authorities have confirmed that Michael Angok, a detainee at the Villawood Immigration Detention Centre, was awaiting deportation when he escaped from custody at Bankstown Hospital.
Superintendent Brett Van Akker refrained from disclosing details about Angok’s criminal record but reassured concerned residents in the Bankstown community. He stated, “Our main focus from the beginning has been to recapture this individual,” emphasizing the commitment of law enforcement. “We are deploying all available resources and will work tirelessly.”
According to police, Angok was transferred to Bankstown Hospital for medical care prior to his escape. “This individual is already known to law enforcement,” Superintendent Van Akker remarked. “We are collaborating closely with Border Force and the Australian Federal Police to locate him and return him to custody.” He urged any members of the public with relevant information to reach out to the authorities promptly.
Police received reports of Angok’s escape from Border Force officials at approximately 9:40 PM yesterday while he was at the hospital. Superintendent Van Akker indicated that a significant operation was launched in response. “Our efforts have intensified overnight and will continue throughout the day,” he noted.
Michael Angok, 30, fled custody after being transported from Villawood Immigration Detention Centre to the hospital on Wednesday morning at 9:30 AM. He is currently on the run. Angok, who was convicted in February 2014 for gang raping a 14-year-old girl in a Doonside park, is being actively sought by NSW Police. Authorities have advised the public not to approach him but to contact emergency services immediately if he is spotted.
Specialized units such as the Raptor Squad, PolAir, the Dog Unit, and Operations Support Group have been deployed in the search effort. Some of Angok’s personal belongings were discovered discarded on Gallipoli Road, but he remains at large.
Detective Superintendent Van Akker reiterated that Angok is known to the police, although he declined to comment on his past convictions. He explained that Angok was in transit to receive medical treatment when he escaped and was slated for deportation from Australia. Angok was sentenced for sexually assaulting a teenage girl in a Doonside park, along with two accomplices. After serving a minimum non-parole period of two years, he was released in 2017.
Authorities have provided a description of Angok: he is of African descent, approximately 175 to 180 centimeters tall, has a slim build, and short black hair. At the time of his escape, he was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, grey tracksuit bottoms, and white Crocs. Police noted that Angok had previously lived in the Blacktown area and may have used public transport following his escape.
Anyone with information regarding Angok’s whereabouts is strongly advised to avoid approaching him and to contact Triple Zero (000) without delay.
