British law enforcement agencies have launched a massive manhunt for a 24-year-old Algerian national who was mistakenly released from a London prison in what authorities are calling a "serious administrative error."
Sofiane Khelladi, described as potentially dangerous, walked out of HMP Wandsworth on Tuesday after prison staff incorrectly processed his release despite him being required to remain in custody.
Nationwide Search Underway
The Metropolitan Police have issued urgent appeals to the public, warning against approaching Khelladi but urging immediate reporting of any sightings. Officers across London and surrounding counties are conducting intensive searches, checking known addresses and monitoring transportation hubs.
"We are pursuing all available leads to locate this individual as quickly as possible," a police spokesperson stated. "The public is advised to exercise caution while we work to resolve this situation."
Prison Service Under Scrutiny
This incident has raised serious questions about security protocols within the UK prison system. HMP Wandsworth, a Category B men's prison in southwest London, has faced previous criticism for operational failures.
The Ministry of Justice has launched an immediate investigation into how such a significant error could occur. "We are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness," a ministry representative confirmed. "A thorough review of release procedures is underway to prevent future occurrences."
International Implications
With Khelladi being an Algerian national, the case has drawn attention from international authorities. UK Border Force and immigration officials are collaborating with police to track any potential attempts to leave the country.
Prison reform advocates have seized upon the incident to highlight what they describe as "systemic failures" in the British correctional system, particularly concerning overcrowding and understaffing issues that have plagued many UK prisons.
The search continues as authorities work around the clock to locate the wrongly released prisoner and return him to custody.
