NO TRACE OF PRISONER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21099, 5 February 1932, Page 8

NO TRACE OF PRISONER.

ACTIVE SEARCH BY POLICE. BELIEVED TO BE SHELTERED. TREATMENT FOR EYE NEEDED, j Although an extensive search was made yesterday by both the detective and uniform branches of the police force no trace) was discovered of the missing prisoner, Roy George Cudby, who escaped from custody at the Auckland Hospital at an early, hour on Wednesday morning. Throughout yesterday and again last night the police wero active, but no indication,of the prisoner's movements was obtained. Since his escape four detectives and a large number of constables have been constantly investigating. The fact that no houses or other premises were entered on Wednesday night and no thefts of clothing, money or food have been reported, confirms the suspicion of the police that Cudby has not attempted to leave the city, but that he has been received, clothed and sheltered by friends in Auckland. It is thought he wa s here for some time prior to his rearrest after breaking away from the Wellington Hospital, where ho was being treated while serving a sentence for theft, and 'during this period' he is likely to have made a number of acquaintanceships.

A further reason why it is probable that Cudby is receiving aid is that after the operation to his eye, which was removed in the hospital on Sunday, be requires attention. The danger to the prisoner if there is lack of attention is regarded as very real. It is recalled that when Cudby escaped at Wellington he was undergoing treatment for the eye, and it was later stated in Court that it was the fact that the treatment could not be continued when he broke away that caused him to lose the -sight of the eye.

After a period in hiding it is probable that Cudby will attempt to make his way out of the city, as he is too well-known to many members of the local police to remain at liberty if he leaves his place of concealment. He is known to be an expert car driver, while he can also ride a motor-cycle. The police regard him as a dangerous and shrewd criminal.