Authorities have intensified their search for an escaped prisoner as concerns grow over how he managed to slip away after being allowed out on a supervised visit to attend a funeral.
New CCTV Released in Search for Orijol Rukaj
Detectives from Victoria Police’s Fugitive Squad have released new CCTV as the search for escaped prisoner Orijol Rukaj enters its seventh week. Rukaj, 47, was last seen about 1:30pm on Saturday, April 25, when he attended a funeral at Keilor East Cemetery, in Melbourne’s northwest, on a supervised visit. During the service he slipped away undetected and has not been seen since.
Police say there have been no confirmed sightings in the two months since his escape. On Tuesday, officers attended 20 addresses across Melbourne to speak with Rukaj’s associates in an effort to generate new leads. Following those enquiries, detectives believe it is likely he is “still hiding somewhere in Melbourne.”
Associates and Organised Crime Links
Police have identified several people believed to have helped plan his escape, but those individuals are “currently offshore.” Rukaj is also known to have connections to Albanian organised crime groups. Investigators on Thursday released new CCTV captured inside a correctional facility earlier this year, which they say provides the most accurate indication of his appearance at the time he fled.
Rukaj is described as Caucasian, about 176cm tall, with a thin build, hazel eyes, short shaved brown hair and a southern European accent. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, black suit and Asics runners. He is known to frequent the Sunbury and St Albans areas.
Public Urged to Report Sightings
Police warn that anyone found to be harbouring or assisting Rukaj may face significant penalties. While he is not believed to be violent, the public is urged to call triple-0 immediately if he is spotted. Investigators have also re-released images of Rukaj and are appealing for him to come forward and contact his nearest police station. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
