Dangerous Criminal Ola Abimbola Walks Free From Sussex Jail
Ola Abimbola, 36, a violent Nigerian offender serving 21 years for kidnap and assault, has vanished from HMP Ford, an open prison in Sussex. The escape happened on 10 October 2023, less than a month after he was transferred as part of Labour’s controversial plan to ease overcrowding in high-security prisons.
High-Risk Offender Left Unsecured in Open Jail
Abimbola’s crimes include kidnap, grievous bodily harm, and weapon possession. Despite his parole date not until June 2030 and release set for 2036, he was housed in a low-security prison with minimal supervision. Open prisons let inmates leave for work or education on licence — a loophole Abimbola exploited to make his break.
This reckless move raises serious alarms over the government’s bungled risk assessments of dangerous criminals.
Justice Secretary David Lammy Under Fire Over Prison Escapes
The latest escape heaps pressure on Justice Secretary David Lammy, already slammed for blunders releasing foreign sex offenders and infamous fraudsters. A recent report reveals HMP Ford is bursting with nearly twice the expected number of high-risk inmates — turning the jail into a ticking time bomb.
Probation services are stretched thin, with delays in release checks and staff shortages creating perfect conditions for criminals like Abimbola to slip away.
Massive Manhunt Underway – Public Urged to Stay Alert
Sussex Police have launched a full-scale hunt for Abimbola. The public is warned not to approach him and to dial 999 immediately if he is spotted.
- Name: Ola Abimbola
- Age: 36
- Last Seen: HMP Ford, 10 October 2023
- Crimes: Kidnap, grievous bodily harm, weapon possession
- Sentence: 21 years, parole earliest June 2030
The hunt continues as safety fears soar and the government faces fresh criticism over failing prison policies.
