Police are appealing for public assistance as the search continues for a detainee who escaped custody in Sydney’s south-west.

Michael Angok, 30, fled after being transported from Villawood Immigration Detention Centre to Bankstown Hospital on Wednesday morning. He reportedly ran from the hospital shortly after 9.30am.

Officers from Bankstown Police Area Command, supported by specialist units including PolAir, the Dog Unit and tactical teams, established a perimeter and carried out an extensive search of the surrounding area.

Police located a number of personal items discarded on Gallipoli Road during the operation, but the man has not yet been found.

He is described as being of African appearance, about 175cm to 180cm tall, with a thin build and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, grey tracksuit pants and white Crocs-style sandals.

Police believe he may have connections to Sydney’s west, particularly the Blacktown area, and could be using the public transport network.

Authorities have urged members of the public not to approach him if sighted, but to call Triple Zero immediately.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Investigations are ongoing.

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