Manhunt launched after prisoner escapes Lewisham medical unit
Metropolitan Police are searching for 38‑year‑old Anthony Lloyd, last seen heading towards Catford, and have warned the public not to approach him.
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Both sources cite the Metropolitan Police and Press Association, with one naming a detective superintendent.
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Headlines use 'manhunt' which is appropriate given the police warning, but the body of the text is factual.
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The Metropolitan Police announced on Saturday that a search is under way for Anthony Lloyd, a 38‑year‑old who forced his way out of the Lewisham medical unit on Friday afternoon. He was last observed near 4.10 pm heading towards Catford. The force says he poses a danger to himself and to members of the public.
Background to the escape
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Lloyd was transferred to the Lewisham health facility in September after serving a twelve‑month custodial term for an actual bodily harm conviction handed down in 2025. The offence involved three emergency‑service workers in Nottinghamshire, according to the Press Association. While in prison he was moved for medical reasons, and the unit he escaped from provides supervised care for inmates with health needs.
Police describe Lloyd as a white male, about five foot eight, of medium build, with short dark hair. At the time he fled he wore a grey‑blue T‑shirt, black tracksuit trousers and white trainers. Officers believe he could be anywhere in London and note that he has connections to several regions outside the capital, including Surrey, Sussex and the Thames Valley.
Police appeal to the public
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We are concerned he poses a risk both to himself and the public, and would urge anyone who sees him to call 999 immediately. Do not approach him.
Detective Superintendent Melanie Pressley, Metropolitan Police
Detective Superintendent Melanie Pressley, who is leading the operation, told reporters that officers are pursuing a range of inquiries to locate Lloyd and return him to custody. She added that any piece of information, however minor, could prove decisive in the search.
What residents should do
Members of the public are asked not to engage with Lloyd if they spot him. The police have instructed anyone with a sighting to dial 999 and provide the reference CAD4739/23Oct. This will allow officers to prioritise the call and coordinate the response quickly.
The search will continue throughout the week, with officers deploying patrols, CCTV checks and community alerts. Residents in the Catford area and surrounding boroughs should remain alert to any unusual activity and follow updates from the Metropolitan Police on their official channels.
Questions this report answers
+What is the police looking for?
Police are searching for Anthony Lloyd, a 38‑year‑old who escaped a Lewisham health unit on Friday. He is described as a risk to himself and the public, and officers are using patrols, CCTV and community tips to locate him.
+When was Lloyd last seen?
Lloyd was last observed at around 4.10 pm on Friday as he left the Lewisham medical facility and moved in the direction of Catford. That sighting forms the basis of the current police search.
+What should the public do if they spot him?
Anyone who sees Lloyd should call 999 immediately, quote the reference CAD4739/23Oct, and avoid approaching him. Police have warned that trying to intervene could be dangerous for both the public and the individual.
+Why is Lloyd considered a risk?
Lloyd was convicted in 2025 of actual bodily harm involving three emergency‑service workers, for which he served a twelve‑month sentence. Police say his recent escape raises concerns that he may harm himself or others, prompting the urgent manhunt.
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