'Do not approach' 999 warning as police hunt man with TK Maxx bag who absconded from secure unit

Police have issued an urgent appeal for a man carrying a TK Maxx bag who absconded from a secure unit yesterday (April 25).

Members of the public have been urged not to approach Shaun Paul Smith. Instead, those who see him have been asked to call 999 immediately.

The 60-year-old was last seen near the toilets on the ground floor of Fishergate shopping centre at 1pm on Thursday. He was on a visit to Preston.

According to Lancashire Constabulary, Smith also goes by the name Aemon Martin. He is white, has grey hair, is of slim build, and wears a beard and moustache.

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A spokesperson for the force said: "Have you seen this man? We are looking for Shaun Paul Smith after he absconded during a visit to Preston from a secure unit yesterday.

"Smith, aka Aemon Martin, was last seen near the toilets on the ground floor of Fishergate shopping centre at about 1pm. He is white, grey hair, slim build, beard and moustache.

"He was last seen wearing a hat, cream jeans, grey/red t-shirt, grey cardigan, black coat, black trainers and a backpack. Carrying a large TK Maxx bag. If you see him, please do not approach him but call 999 quoting log 0689 of April 25th.

"Please also get in touch if you have any information about where he could be."