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10/03/2017
NIPS Issues Apology After 'Dangerous' Prisoner Mistakenly Released
The Head of the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) has apologised after a "dangerous" inmate was mistakenly released from Maghaberry Prison.
Michael Lawrence Smith, who has been charged with murder, was released in error on Tuesday, 07 March, and has failed to return to prison.
Mr Ronnie Armour said what happened was a "very serious mistake".
He also apologised to the family of Stephen Carson who was fatally shot in his home in Walmer Street last year.
Meanwhile, Alliance Justice spokesperson Trevor Lunn has called for a full investigation.
He said: "It is clear such a fundamental mistake should not have happened, particularly with a noted dangerous individual such as Smith.
"This is basic security and a full investigation should take place as to how it occurred."
The public are being urged not to approach Smith and to contact the police immediately.
(CD/LM)
Michael Lawrence Smith, who has been charged with murder, was released in error on Tuesday, 07 March, and has failed to return to prison.
Mr Ronnie Armour said what happened was a "very serious mistake".
He also apologised to the family of Stephen Carson who was fatally shot in his home in Walmer Street last year.
Meanwhile, Alliance Justice spokesperson Trevor Lunn has called for a full investigation.
He said: "It is clear such a fundamental mistake should not have happened, particularly with a noted dangerous individual such as Smith.
"This is basic security and a full investigation should take place as to how it occurred."
The public are being urged not to approach Smith and to contact the police immediately.
(CD/LM)
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