The department said the man, who was detained over child sexual offences, escaped from police custody at the prison compound.

“The incident took place at about 6pm while the man was being transferred to prison after completing court proceedings at the Shah Alam courthouse.

“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of detainees and the public at all times and will take strict action against any breach of procedures,” Bernama quoted the department as saying today.

Earlier, Sungai Buloh police chief Hafiz Nor said the man was last seen wearing an orange T-shirt and black trousers.

Hafiz urged anyone with information on the man’s whereabouts to call investigating officer C Muhendran at 010-4304383, the Sungai Buloh police headquarters at 03-6156 1222, or the nearest police station.