KEY POINTS:
An escaped prisoner's freedom was shortlived today when he was recaptured shortly after scaling a fence at Auckland's Mt Eden prison, the Corrections Department says.
Public Prisons Service northern regional manager Warren Cummins said the escape bid was contained by Corrections officers and the police's quick response.
"It appears that the prisoner was able to climb the perimeter wall using material that had been thrown over from outside the prison.
"However, the event was observed by a Corrections officer, and the police were immediately notified," Mr Cummins said.
The escapee was recaptured near the prison by the Auckland Domain at 10.55am, just 25 minutes after scaling the wall.
"The prisoner will be receiving medical treatment after cutting himself on the prison's razor wire," Mr Cummins said.
Breakout escapes, where the security of a prison is breached, were relatively uncommon, he said.
"However, as is practice, the department will be reviewing the circumstances."
- NZPA
