Andrew Ashley was recaptured by Alice Springs Police at about 1:10 pm today.

Alice Springs Watch Commander, Andrew Barram said the man’s whereabouts was reported to Police after he was sighted in the Centrelink Office.

"Coordinated patrols of the Alice Springs CBD were conducted, and the escapee was located by a patrol in the Todd Street Mall outside the Todd Tavern a short time later.

"Police would like to thank the Centrelink staff who alerted Police to the escapee's presence and provided an excellent description of him, which aided Police in locating and recapturing him quickly,” said Watch Commander Barram.

The man has since been charged with escaping lawful custody and will face the Alice Springs Magistrates Court this afternoon.