Paul Reginald Dunn, who was in custody for assault offences, was last seen by prison staff at the minimum security facility around 3.30pm on Friday, January 27.

About 5.15pm the same day, Mr Dunn failed to attend muster and staff were unable to find him during a search of the complex.

Mr Dunn is described as of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, of medium complexion, 175cm tall, slim build, brown hair in a crew cut style, clean shaven, with tattoos on both wrists and his neck.

The escapee was last seen wearing prison greens.

Officers from New England Local Area Command have commenced inquiries to locate Mr Dunn and are urging anyone who may have seen anything suspicious to come forward.

Crime manager Ann Joy told the Examiner escapee incidences were not common however have happened in the past.

“We have from time to time had escapees in the past,” she said.

“In terms of our investigations, we are examining areas that [the escapee] has frequented in the past and had connections to.”

This includes family members and friends both locally and elsewhere.

“The Inverell detectives office is managing the investigation,” she said.

Crime Manager Ann Joy said it was important that the public did not approach the man but to call the nearest police station, triple 0 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 as soon as possible.

Making note of the location, direction of travel, what the man is wearing or other relevant information was also important to report to police to aid the investigations.

“Obtaining registration details if that’s relevant, or a description of the direction of travel,” she said.

“All of those sorts of things will help police and the investigation.

“But the main message is to not approach him.”