A Hamilton man who escaped from police more than a week ago with one arm handcuffed is still on the run, although police believe he has probably managed to cut off the handcuff.
Martin Uta Tahau, 31, was arrested after reports of family violence at a Matai Street house in the suburb of Forest Lake on January 2.
Police managed to get one handcuff on him before the woman he was accused of assaulting came running out of the house, drunk, and allegedly attacked two arresting officers, police said.
Despite police inquiries, Tahau was still at large, Senior Sergeant Gillian Meadows of Hamilton police told NZPA today.
It was unlikely he would still have the handcuff on, she said.
"They go to a lot of effort to remove them, and they are removable."
Police have appealed for help in tracking down Tahau, who is Maori, 183cm tall and of medium build.
He has a history of violence, including carrying and using firearms, and should not be approached.
- NZPA
Hamilton man still on run, despite handcuff
Police are looking for Martin Uta Tahau, a violent offender on the run in Hamilton. Photo / NZPA/NZ Police
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