Police still hunt escaped prisoner

Police are still on the hunt for convicted offender Mana Tangitutu who escaped from custody last week after being handed a four month prison sentence for family violence.

Since his escape police have executed a number of search warrants in Kawerau and Opotiki to try to locate him, while police in other district are making similar enquiries.

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Standen said Tangitutu had a very distinctive appearance.

"It is our belief that someone must be assisting him and I need to make it very clear that we will look to prosecute anyone who is found to be helping him to evade capture."

Tangitutu is 27, Maori and 180cms tall.

Mr Standen said Tangitutu had gang affiliations and had a distinctive full facial tattoo featuring three 'M's on his forehead and East Coast Mongrel across his nose and upper lip.

He has links to the Gisborne area, Whakatane, Tauranga and the North Shore.

Mr Standen said members of the public should not approach Tangitutu but to report any sightings immediately by calling 111.

"Anyone else who has knowledge of where he is should contact the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."