Manhunt underway for prisoner who escaped custody from Dublin hospital

The prisoner is currently awaiting sentencing for assault causing harm.

The prisoner, who has been identified by the Irish Independent as Keith Macken from Cabra, was brought to Tallaght Hospital for treatment early on Saturday.

He reportedly absconded from prison officers at about 6am this morning.

He had been on remand at Wheatfield Prison, where he was awaiting sentencing for a charge of assault causing harm.

A statement given to Extra by the Irish Prison Service states: "The Irish Prison Service can confirm that a prisoner has escaped from lawful custody while on escort to Tallaght Hospital this morning.

"An Garda Síochána were notified immediately and provided with all the relevant information in relation to the prisoner. The Irish Prison Service is currently investigating the circumstances of the escape."

The individual remains at large, and An Garda Síochána are currently pursuing him.