Police catch Buimo escapee

 By JUNIOR UKAHA

POLICE recaptured an escapee on Tuesday in Eriku, Lae, and later found about K35,000 worth of marijuana at his home.

He is Gilbert Jerry, 26, from Kompri, Eastern Highlands. Jerry was cornered by police based on a tip-off after he was trying to board a PMV bus around 10am at the Eriku bus stop.

Jerry was among 47 inmates who escaped from the Buimo Jail outside Lae last month. 

He was serving time for armed robbery.

Lae police operations commander Fred Kaiwa said it brought to 22 the number of escapees recaptured, including the two who were shot dead. 

Police also found marijuana at his home.

“Police took him to his home at 2-Mile and discovered a large quantity of dried marijuana,” Insp Kaiwa said.

Kaiwa said the marijuana has an estimated street value of K35,000.

Kaiwa said Gilbert was charged with escaping from lawful custody and for being in possession of marijuana. 

He was returned to Buimo Jail. 

“I call on all escapees who are still on the run to voluntarily surrender to police or your community leaders so that police can take you back to custody,” Kaiwa said.

He said those escapees who refused to surrender and remain on the run would eventually be caught.