Police in Greater Manchester have launched an urgent search after a prisoner escaped while being taken from a secure hospital facility to North Manchester General Hospital for medical treatment.

Marwan Jumaa, 20, absconded from custody as he was being transported from the unit. He is currently serving a custodial sentence for assault.

GMP has warned members of the public not to approach Jumaa if they see him. He is described as a black male of skinny build, with short dark hair and standing around 5ft 10in tall. It is not known what he was wearing at the time of his escape.

Police believe Jumaa has links to the Leeds and London areas. Officers have not disclosed any specific links to Oldham, but the force has urged residents across Greater Manchester to remain vigilant.

In an appeal for information, a GMP spokesperson said: “If you see him, do not approach him – please call 999 immediately quoting log number 3544 of 14/07/2026. Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of Jumaa is asked to contact police on 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

The escape took place during a routine medical transfer from a secure unit. It is understood that Jumaa was under guard at the time but managed to flee upon arrival at the hospital. Police are now conducting extensive inquiries to trace him, including house-to-house checks and reviewing CCTV footage from the area.

For Oldham residents, there is no confirmed local sighting, but GMP advises anyone who sees someone matching Jumaa’s description to follow the official guidance and report it immediately. The quickest way to report a sighting is by dialling 999 with the reference number provided.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police have not ruled out that Jumaa may attempt to leave the region. Anyone with information that could assist, even if it seems minor, is urged to come forward.