Statement from the GPS on the escape of Royden “Smallie” James.

Members of the Joint Services have intensified the search to recapture prison escapee Royden Williams, also known as “Smallie”, who escaped from the Mazaruni Prison at about 14:30 hrs. today.

Williams was returning to the Sibley Hall prison after receiving a visit from a female who is currently in custody, when the escorting ranks came under gunfire. The ranks dismounted the ATV and returned fire at the assailants.

At that point, one of the boat occupants came onto the land and continued to discharge several rounds towards the prison officers.

Williams, who was in foot chains, managed to run towards the riverbank and jump into the river. His accomplices at that point assisted him into the boat, which then proceeded westerly upriver.

No prison officer was injured during the ordeal. Prisoner Williams is considered to be armed and dangerous.

The public is, hereby, asked to report any sightings of this individual to the nearest police station or any prison location to assist in his recapture and the arrest of his accomplices.