Prisoner is released 'by mistake'

Police are urging Bobby Phipps to hand himself in

Police in Manchester are looking for a man who has been released from prison by mistake.

Bobby Phipps, 22, who faces six charges of attempted murder, was let out of HMP Manchester at Strangeways on Monday in error after only four days inside.

He was remanded in custody at the prison after appearing before magistrates in the city last Friday.

Police have said Mr Phipps could be a danger to the public, and are urging him to hand himself in.

Officers are taking steps to protect witnesses and victims involved in the offences Mr Phipps has been charged with.

Greater Manchester Police said on Friday that it was only notified of his "release" on Thursday.

We are obviously extremely concerned that he is back in the community ACC Dave Whatton Greater Manchester Police

Mr Phipps was due to appear before Manchester Crown Court on Friday, but failed to turn up.

He faces six counts of attempted murder, two offences of possessing firearms with intent to endanger life and two offences of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Whatton, from Greater Manchester Police, said: "The offences with which he has been charged involve the use of guns and I am very concerned that he presents a danger to the public.

"Steps are being taken to safeguard witnesses and victims connected to the offences.

"We are obviously extremely concerned that he is back in the community so I have taken the decision to issue details of his release and a picture of him to ask the public for their help in locating him.

'Reassure public'

"I would like to reassure people that we are doing everything we can to find him.

"I would urge anyone who sees him or knows his whereabouts not to approach him but to contact us immediately.

"I would also urge Bobby Phipps to hand himself into the police."

An investigation has begun by the Prison Service to establish how the mix-up happened.