A major police operation is underway in Far North Queensland after a man described as "very dangerous" escaped from a Cairns mental health facility, triggering an urgent public warning and a city-wide manhunt.
Urgent Public Warning and City-Wide Search
The incident began on Tuesday when a patient absconded from the Cairns Adult Mental Health Inpatient Unit. Queensland Police immediately issued an urgent public appeal, stating the man was considered "very dangerous" and should not be approached under any circumstances. The community was urged to call Triple Zero (000) immediately if they spotted him.
In a related development, a second man was arrested by police on Wednesday morning. This individual was apprehended as part of the intensive search for the escaped patient. While he was taken into custody, authorities confirmed he was not the missing mental health patient they were primarily seeking. The arrested man is now assisting police with their ongoing investigation into the broader circumstances surrounding the escape.
Details of the Escape and Police Response
The escape has raised serious questions about security and protocols at the facility. The man managed to leave the hospital premises, prompting an immediate and large-scale response from Queensland Police. Officers have been conducting extensive searches, doorknocking local areas, and reviewing CCTV footage in a bid to track the man's movements.
Police have not released the name or a detailed description of the missing patient publicly, citing operational reasons and the sensitive nature of his condition. However, they have reiterated that he poses a significant risk to the community. The search is focused on the Cairns region, with police resources heavily committed to locating him safely.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has caused considerable concern among Cairns residents. The stark warning from police has led many to be extra vigilant. Local schools and businesses in the vicinity of the hospital were reportedly notified as a precautionary measure.
The arrest of the second man indicates police are exploring all possible connections and leads. It remains unclear what specific link, if any, this individual has to the escaped patient. The investigation is now working on two fronts: the continued urgent search for the dangerous missing man, and a probe into how the escape was able to occur and who may have been involved.
Queensland Health has been contacted for comment regarding the security breach at the Cairns Adult Mental Health Inpatient Unit. The police operation remains active, and the public warning is still in effect until the man is found.
