Anthony Lloyd: London manhunt intensifies after escape from Lewisham medical unit
Police are searching the capital for a 38-year-old man who forced his way out of a health facility, urging the public to call 999 rather than approach him.
By Ji-eun Choi ·
Anthony Lloyd is currently the focus of a major police search across London after he escaped from a medical facility in the city's south-east. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the 38-year-old man forced his way out of the health unit in Lewisham shortly after 4pm on Friday. He was last seen at approximately 4.10pm, heading in the direction of Catford. Officers have described him as posing a risk to both himself and the general public.
Lloyd was convicted in 2025 for causing actual bodily harm. The offense stemmed from an incident in Nottinghamshire involving three emergency services workers. He received a 12-month custodial sentence and was initially sent to prison. In September of this year, he was transferred to the medical facility in Lewisham for treatment. His recent escape has triggered a coordinated effort to locate him and return him to custody.
Detective Superintendent Melanie Pressley is leading the investigation. She stated that officers are conducting significant inquiries to find Lloyd. Pressley emphasized the urgency of the situation in a statement issued on Saturday. She noted that the force is concerned about the potential danger Lloyd presents. She urged anyone who spots the man to call 999 immediately. Police specifically advised the public not to approach him on their own.
The physical description provided by police may help residents identify the escaped prisoner. Lloyd is white with a medium build. He stands about 5 feet 8 inches tall and has short dark hair. When he was last seen leaving the facility, he was wearing a grey-blue T-shirt. He also had on black tracksuit bottoms and white trainers. These details are being shared widely to aid in the search.
While the primary search is focused on London, officers believe Lloyd could be anywhere in the capital. However, police have noted that he has connections to several other regions. These include Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley, and Hampshire. He also has links to Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Merseyside. This broader network of connections suggests he might attempt to travel to familiar areas to hide or seek support.
The police are appealing for public assistance in locating Lloyd. Detective Superintendent Pressley asked for anyone with relevant details to get in touch as a matter of urgency. She requested that even small pieces of information be reported. The force believes that community involvement could be crucial in narrowing down the search area. Quick reporting could help officers respond more effectively to sightings.
Members of the public have been given specific instructions on how to report a sighting. If you see Anthony Lloyd, you should call 999. You must quote the reference number CAD4739/23Oct when speaking to the operator. This reference will help dispatch the appropriate units to the location. It ensures that the information is logged correctly and acted upon swiftly by the lead investigators.
The escape occurred during the afternoon hours when many residents were likely out and about. The timing of his exit, just after 4pm, coincided with the end of the workday for many in the south-east. This may have allowed him to blend into the normal flow of pedestrians and traffic. Police are reviewing footage and witness accounts to trace his movements since he left the facility grounds.
The medical facility in Lewisham is a key location in this case. It serves a specific population of prisoners who require health care. The transfer of Lloyd to this unit in September indicates he had specific medical needs. His ability to force his way out has raised questions about security protocols at the site. Investigators are likely to review these procedures as part of their ongoing inquiries.
As the search continues, the Metropolitan Police remain in constant communication with the public. Updates are being monitored to ensure that the latest information is available. The force is working to balance the need for a swift capture with the safety of the public. The situation remains active, and officers are deployed across key areas of London to intercept Lloyd if he is spotted.
Source: The Guardian
