Manhunt for Samir Derek Belhajjam after he escapes from police transport vehicle outside Taupō court

Police are working to locate Samir Derek Belhajjam, 30, who has escaped custody in Taupo on January 13, 2025. Picture supplied by NZ Police

Authorities are hunting for a man who has escaped custody from a police transport vehicle in Taupō this evening.

Samir Derek Belhajjam, aged 30, fled from the vehicle at the Taupō District Court on Story Place about 6pm.

He was being remanded in custody after an appearance in court today.

“He was wearing green prison-issue shorts and T-shirt, along with an orange high-vis vest,” a police spokesperson said.

“Residents may notice an increased police presence as staff work to locate him.”

Anyone who sees Belhajjam or has information on his whereabouts is asked not to approach him, but instead to call 111 immediately.