OFFICIAL METHODS.

Auckland Star, Volume LVII, Issue 15, 19 January 1926, Page 6

OFFICIAL METHODS.

Yesterday the gaol authorities showed a marked reluctance to acquaint the Press with newa regarding an escapee. When the prison superintendent was approached in the morning he could tell the "Star" representative no more than he already knew—that the prisoner had escaped. How the Maori managed to do this under the eyes of the various warders stationed on the walls and elsewhere about the quarry was not known. Nor could a description be supplied of Pene, owing to the "new regulations." Then, last evening, when the gaol was telephoned for news regarding Pene the reporter was discourteously treated and refused information as to whether the man at large had 'been secured. The required information was supplied afterwards without demur by the City Police Station.

The attitude of the gaol officials in this matter is directly opposed to public interests. When a prisoner escapes there is always considerable uneasiness among citizens, especially -women, -who do not feel at rest until they hear that the escapee is safe behind the bare once more. It is their Tight to have information on the matter. The circulation of a full description of the wanted man is obviously a great aid in his recapture. If officials yesterday were adhering to new regulations these are badly in need of revision by the Commissioner.