Police are currently searching for a prisoner who escaped lawful custody from the Royal Darwin Hospital overnight.

23-year-old Ryan Whitfield fled from the ambulance bay at RDH after being escorted to Accident and Emergency for treatment. 

Detective Acting Sergeant Keiron Weller of the Serious Crime Section said the man fled at around 1.40am.

“After receiving treatment at RDH, Whitfield was being escorted to a vehicle to be transported back to Darwin Correctional Centre when he broke free and fled down the ambulance ramp and into scrub land,” said Detective Acting Sergeant Keiron Weller.

“Police were alerted shortly after and a number of units attended including General Duties, Traffic, Metropolitan Patrol Group, Forensic officers and the Dog Squad. 

Ryan Whitfield is described as Caucasian, approximately 170cms tall, 80kgs, slim build, brown hair and green eyes.  He was last seen wearing a light blue t-shirt, navy ‘King Gee’ shorts and was barefoot. 

“Whitfield was restrained by handcuffs when he fled, with his hands cuffed in the front.  He will inevitably attempt to remove the cuffs, and may seek assistance to do so.

“We ask the public to be on the lookout for Ryan Whitfield, but treat him with caution.  If sighted do not approach him, but contact Police immediately.

If anyone has information relating to the whereabouts of Ryan Whitfield, contact Police immediately on 131 444 or anonymously on Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.