Last of escaped prisoners recaptured

The last of four Auckland prison van escapees was tonight recaptured in Remuera, bringing to an end nearly 12 hours of freedom.

Paul Robinson was caught about 8.30pm after absconding through a ventilation shaft in the roof of the Chubb security van along with three others about 8.45am today.

Police say Robinson, who had been considered dangerous, will appear in court tomorrow charged with escaping custody.

One of the four fugitives was caught by police shortly after the bid for freedom and the other two were nabbed by the van's security guards after trying to commandeer a car they had flagged down.

Five other prisoners being transported in the van elected to stay put.

- NZPA