Police searching for a man who escaped from a minimum-security correctional facility at Glen Innes have determined he did not steal a car overnight.
Selim Sensoy, age 44, was reported missing from the facility on Gwydir Highway, Glen Innes, about 12pm on Saturday (23 May 2020). Police have been told he was last seen at 10am that day.
Officers from New England Police District were notified and commenced inquiries to locate him.
It was initially believed Sensoy may have stolen a red Subaru WRX from a Glen Innes home after his escape; however, following further inquiries, it was determined he was not involved.
That vehicle was recovered following a pursuit near Moree today. The Subaru failed to stop for officers patrolling Edward Street, Moree, just before 11am, and a pursuit was initiated. The pursuit was terminated a short time later due to the dangerous manner of driving.
Following extensive inquiries, with the assistance of PolAir and the Dog Unit, the Subaru was located on the northern bank of the Gwydir River, and two men – aged 44 and 50 – were arrested.
The men where taken to Moree Police Station, where the older man was charged with three outstanding warrants and the younger man was charged with multiple traffic offences.
The pair were refused bail to appear before Moree Local Court tomorrow (Monday 25 May 2020).
A large-scale search to locate Sensoy is continuing and police are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward.
He is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, between 175-185cm tall, with a medium build, brown eyes and grey hair.
He was last seen wearing prison greens; however, it’s not known whether he has since changed clothes.
Sensoy, from Prospect, also has connections on the Mid North Coast and south east Queensland.
Police are warning members of the public not to approach him, but to instead call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or . Information is treated in strict confidence.
