Police in Tasmania are continuing their hunt for two teenagers after a group of seven juveniles broke out of a secure detention facility on Thursday evening. The incident, which involved an assault on staff and a stolen car, triggered a major overnight search operation across the state's north.
Violent Outbreak and Escape
The escape unfolded at approximately 7pm on Thursday from the Ashley Youth Detention Centre, located in northern Tasmania. According to police statements, the situation escalated when some of the young people physically assaulted three staff members shortly before absconding. One staff member sustained injuries to their neck and hands during the altercation.
In the chaos, the group of seven detainees, all aged between 14 and 17 years old, managed to flee the premises. They allegedly stole a blue Subaru WRX from the centre's car park to aid their getaway, marking a serious escalation of the incident.
Overnight Police Search Operation
A significant search was launched immediately, involving ground units and a police helicopter. The stolen Subaru was located abandoned in the Penguin area at around 10.20pm. Penguin is roughly 85 kilometres west of the detention centre, indicating the distance the group had travelled.
The recapture of the escapees began in the early hours of Friday. The first detainee was located and returned to custody at about 1am. Two more were found near Ulverstone just before 7.30am, with another taken in a few hours later. In a further development, a fifth detainee handed himself in at the Glenorchy Police Station early on Friday afternoon.
Ongoing Manhunt and Community Impact
Despite these successes, two teenagers remain at large as of Friday. Tasmania Police have not released further details about their identities but have confirmed the ongoing active search. The escape and the violent prelude have raised immediate questions about security protocols and staff safety at the youth detention facility.
The incident has drawn significant police resources and caused concern in the local communities across the north of the state. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings to police, but not to approach the individuals.
