Manhunt after prisoner escapes from van outside court

A manhunt is under way after a prisoner escaped from a van taking him to a court appearance.

Stephen Grzyb, 22, was being transported by contractor GEOAmey from Belle Vale custody suite to Liverpool Magistrates' Court to face burglary charges on Saturday.

As the van arrived outside the court building, at around 10:00 BST, Grzyb was able to flee and ran off down Red Cross Street towards the Strand.

Merseyside Police said: "Assisting him in any way will bring police to your own door, so it is not an association worth keeping."

Gryzb, of Princess Drive, is described as white with short dark hair and was wearing a navy t-shirt and navy shorts when he was last seen.

A police spokesperson said patrols had been sent to the home of the alleged victim of the burglary to ensure her safety until he is found.

Insp Bethan Hannon said: "We understand the concern this incident will cause, and it is vital the public can see Grzyb's face so they can report any sightings and help us bring him back into custody as soon as possible.

"If you have heard from him or know where he is, please do the right thing and come forward."

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