Reported missing on Saturday evening, five people have escaped from the Skenäs prison outside Norrköping, according to the Prison Service. The alarm was received by the police shortly before eleven o’clock on Saturday evening. Monica Bergström, from the Prison Service’s press service, confirmed the escape to Aftonbladet, stating that the individuals have deviated from the institution.
Although one of the escapees has been found, the authorities are still searching for the remaining individuals. Bergström said, “They are wanted by us according to routine, and the police are looking for them according to routine.” The specific timing of the escape is unknown at this time. However, Bergström reassured the public that there is no danger posed by the escapees.
Contrary to earlier reports of a large police hunt, the police have stated that they are not actively pursuing the escaped prisoners. Robert Gustafsson, the press spokesperson for the police in the East region, stated, “The police were there last night, and since we can’t find them, they have been wanted. It is not a case that the police are actively working on now. Now they are wanted.”
Skenäs prison, located approximately three miles outside Norrköping, is an institution for men and has a capacity of 164 places. It is Sweden’s largest prison with security class 3, which was previously called an open institution. These types of prisons typically house first-time offenders or individuals who have committed less serious crimes. Even those who have committed more serious offenses may serve the last part of their sentences in these prisons.
The authorities are continuing their efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining escapees. Updates on the situation will be provided as new information becomes available.