13 February, 2010 - A prisoner from the Thimphu district jail escaped on February 11, while being treated at the Thimphu national referral hospital.

The prisoner, Taula, in his mid forties from Menji in Lhuentse was serving a five-year sentence. He was convicted for criminal misappropriation of property and criminal breach of trust. Taula was wearing prisoner’s uniform at the time of the escape.

Meanwhile, police have placed a reward (amount not specified) and stated that informers would be ‘suitably rewarded’. Police also requests the public not to assist the prisoner or provide shelter. The Chief of Police has ordered an inquiry into the matter.

Following the escape, the health ministry has streamlined the procedures for treating prisoners at the hospital, according to police.

Call police at these numbers if you see him!

17114746, 17114737, 77279273 or 113