Fear prisoners still on run are armed

Waikeria Prison

Police are hunting for two teenagers considered dangerous who escaped from Waikeria Prison near Te Awamutu yesterday.

David John Body, 18, and Samuel Peter Badawi, 17, escaped from the Waikato prison's youth unit.

Police believe they may be armed.

Waikato police spokesman Tony Sasso said today two guns, a car and other items were stolen in a burglary close to the prison after the pair escaped.

Police were not certain whether or not the pair were responsible for the thefts but it was likely, Mr Sasso said.

He said Body was from Te Kuiti, south of Te Awamutu, and Badawi from Tokoroa.

However, both were transient and were believed to have contacts from Taumarunui to Rotorua.

"They could be anywhere in the central North Island really," he said.

Both were considered dangerous and police were urging anyone who had information not to approach them but to call police.

- REUTERS