The 33-year-old Myanmar, whose real name is Abd Hamim Ab Hamid, was last seen wearing a bright T-shirt, brown trousers and slippers.

“Apart from roadblocks, efforts to track down the suspect are being carried out by the police and the K9 tracking dog service,” Tangkak district police chief Mohd Fadhil Minhat said in a statement today.

He said police received a report of the escape at 11:55 am today. He urged the public to come forward with any information on the whereabouts of the suspect, who is said to be involved in cases of rape, kidnap and blackmail.

According to a Berita Harian report, police have launched an operation around the district to track down the suspect who escaped in handcuffs.

“Preliminary investigations found that the man fled through the main gate of the court and disappeared into the bushes nearby,” said Mohd Fadhil.

Berita Harian also said Abd Hamim was brought to court from the Sungai Udang prison in Melaka for a case of intimidation.

“We will take firm action against any party, including policemen, if investigations show any element of negligence.

“The case is being investigated under Sections 223/224 of the Penal Code,” said Mohd Fadhil.

Members of the public who have information can report it to the nearest police station or contact the Tangkak District Police Headquarters (IPD) at 06-978 1222, Tangkak IPD Hotline 06-978 5222 or any IPD.