Appeal to find absconded prisoner who chased youths with machete in Northampton

Merchant, 40, who escaped at about 9.20pm on Thursday, May 4, who is known to frequent Northampton and the Croydon area of London.

"He is white, of a slim build, around 6ft 3ins tall, with short brown hair, blue eyes and has a scar on his forehead above his left eye and has a Northamptonshire accent," a spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said.

When he was last seen he was wearing a grey jumper, black Adidas jogging bottoms with three stripes down the side and white Nike trainers.

Merchant was jailed in 2007 for brandishing a 15in machete as he chased a group of youths through the streets of Northampton.

Investigating officer Det Con Rachel Huggins based at Aylesbury police station said: “We are carrying out a thorough investigation to find Mark Merchant and as part of this investigation we are appealing to the public to come forward with any information they have.

“If you know where Merchant is or if you see him please call police on 999.

“We do not believe Merchant poses a threat to the public, however, please do not approach him instead contact police immediately.

“If you see or know where Merchant is please call 999, or call 101 with any other information quoting reference URN 19 05/05.

“If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”