The lorry that a soldier suspected of terrorism offences allegedly used to escape prison is seen in London, Britain, September 6, 2023, in this screengrab taken from a handout video. VIDEO OBTAINED BY REUTERS/Handout via REUTERS
The Metropolitan Police in the United Kingdom announced on Saturday that a former British soldier accused of terrorism offenses who escaped from jail had been seen again overnight in the Chiswick district of London.
Daniel Abed Khalife, 21, escaped from HMP Wandsworth in London on Wednesday morning after sneaking out of the prison kitchen where he was working and fastening himself to the back of a food delivery truck.
“We can confirm that police involved in the search for Daniel Khalife are this morning … focusing their efforts in and around the Chiswick area,” the Metropolitan Police said in a statement.
“This activity comes after intelligence-led activity and some confirmed sightings in that area overnight, including calls from members of the public.”
The police said Khalife was believed to be wearing a black baseball cap, black T-shirt and dark-coloured bottoms, and carrying a small bag or case.
Khalife was being held in prison ahead of trial on offences relating to terrorism and the Official Secrets Act.
Opposition lawmakers have demanded answers into how he had been able to escape and why he was not being held at a maximum security prison. There are also questions being asked about the jail’s staffing and security procedures.
The hunt to track down Khalife meant enhanced security checks at ports and airports which have led to delays for passengers.