Police say "significant" resources are being devoted to the capture of a convicted gang rapist who absconded from a hospital in Sydney's south-west yesterday morning.
Authorities say that Michael Angok, 30, was receiving treatment before he escaped custody at Bankstown Hospital at about 9.30am yesterday, after being transported from Villawood Immigration Detention Centre.
He has been on the run for more than 30 hours.
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The 30-year-old was imprisoned for his role in the gang rape of a 14-year-old girl in Doonside, in Sydney's west, in 2014 and has spent the past nine years in Villawood Detention Centre.
NSW Police Detective Superintendent Brett Van Akker said that Angok is "well-known to police" as they appeal to the public for information.
Van Akker said that while police will not comment on his criminal history, "significant police resources" are working towards his capture.
Personal items belonging to the 30-year-old were found on Gallipoli Road in Condell Park after his escape.
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He is described as being of African appearance, about 175cm to 180cm tall, of thin build with short black hair.
He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, grey tracksuit pants and white 'croc' sandals.
Angok previously lived in the Blacktown area and may use public transport.
"If anyone knows the whereabouts of this individual, I urge them to come forward and contact police through Crime Stoppers or Triple-Zero," Van Akker said.
As the search continues, anyone who sees Angok is urged not to approach him but to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately.
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