Hunt continues for UK prisoner released by mistake

A 34-year-old man has been released from prison by mistake with the police now searching for him for burglary and robbery.

Ryan Byrne was imprisoned for nine years earlier this year for burglary and robbery. Reports suggest Byrne was in his cell smoking when he was told he was free to go much to his surprise but he did not question the decision. On Friday police were told he had been released by mistake.

Following his release it appears Byrne has been taunting the police. He has taken pictures of himself drinking in a pub and even stood in front of a police van.

A prison service spokeswoman said: “Releases in error are very rare but regrettable occurrences.

The number of incidents have fallen significantly in recent years, with figures down by a quarter compared to 2009/10, but every incident is taken extremely seriously and we are not complacent.

We are investigating this incident. The recapture of this prisoner is now a matter for the police.”

The prison system appears to be overwhelmed and is unable to cope. While this mistake is rare critics argue that it is still happening far too often and the prison system needs to be overhauled to deal with the large number of inmates. Police have now appealed to anyone that has information of Byrnes whereabouts and have described him as white, medium build with blue eyes and a goatee.

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