Bryan Thomas, a 27-year-old from Kirkby jailed for his part in a gangland shooting and the kidnapping and torture of a dad, has been reported unlawfully at large for more than two months. He was released from HMP Kirkham on temporary licence to carry out unpaid work in the community but failed to return on August 21.
Background of the crimes
Thomas was jailed aged 19 for taking part in the targeted shooting at the home of Salford gang boss Stephen Britton. Britton, named in trials as the leader of the A Team gang, was not at home, but a man was left fighting for his life when a bullet lodged in his spine during the shooting.
While Thomas was on the run from police in the aftermath of the shooting, he took part in the kidnap and torture of a Huyton man, which saw him and associates pose as police officers in an attempt to extract a ransom. Thomas was jailed for 17 years with a four-year extended licence for the shooting and an 11-year term, to be served at the same time, for the kidnap plot.
Police appeal for information
Lancashire Constabulary said this week that Thomas was wanted for failing to return to open prison HMP Kirkham having failed to return more than two months ago. A spokesperson for the force said: "We are asking for your help to find Bryan Thomas who is wanted for failing to return to HMP Kirkham following temporary release."
Thomas has a track record of violence that dates back to when he was just 13 including possession of weapons such as a hunting knife, leaving a teenager with a bleed on the brain and assaulting a police officer. The Lancashire Constabulary spokesperson added: "Any previous sightings or information as to where he might be, please contact 101 – quoting log 1512 of August 21."
