Manhunt Launched After Nigerian-Born Drug Convict Escapes Custody in London

(Temitope Segun. Photo Credit: Punch News)

British police have launched a manhunt for a Nigerian-born prisoner who escaped from custody while being transported from court in south-east London.

The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Temitope Segun, was serving a sentence for supplying Class A drugs before his escape on Monday, June 8, 2026.

The Metropolitan Police, as reported by an online news platform, said Segun was last seen near Woolwich High Street at about 18:40 BST on Monday after allegedly ass@ulting a custody officer during transit from Bromley Magistrates’ Court to HMP Thameside.

He is said to have overpowered a guard inside a prison transport van operated by private contractor Serco before fleeing the scene.

Serco confirmed it was responsible for the prisoner escort and said the incident was under investigation.

“An incident occurred on the evening of Monday 8 June in Woolwich. The matter is under investigation,” a Serco spokesperson said.

The company also confirmed that one staff member sustained injuries during the incident and is currently recovering at home.

Segun was last seen wearing a black jacket, black trousers and black trainers. Police believe he has links to Plumstead, Abbey Wood and Woolwich.

Detective Sergeant Claudine Manning of the Metropolitan Police said officers were working around the clock to trace and arr@st him, urging members of the public to contact police via 999 if they sight him or have information on his whereabouts.

The Met Police said the search for the escapee remains ongoing.