Police have launched a major manhunt after a convicted drug dealer absconded from a prison in South Wales, prompting urgent public warnings.
Details of the Prison Escape
Liam Wall, aged 36, walked out of HMP Prescoed on Sunday, 14 December 2025. Wall was serving a nine-year, seven-month sentence for his leading role in a major Cardiff drug operation. He was originally convicted at Cardiff Crown Court in 2017 after police intercepted him on the M4 with a large quantity of drugs.
Gwent Police have activated their operational plan and are working with the prison service to locate the escapee. A spokesperson stated: "Members of the public are advised not to approach Wall and to instead call police if they see him."
Public Appeal and Description
Authorities have released a description of Wall in an effort to track him down. He is described as approximately five foot eight inches tall, bald, with brown eyes and a brown beard.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Gwent Police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 2500396403. Information can also be submitted via direct message on the force's social media channels or online.
Broader Concerns Over Prison Security
This incident raises further questions about security within the UK's prison system. Wall's escape follows a reported 128% increase in prisoners being released in error last year, according to BBC figures.
The case echoes the high-profile escape of terrorist detainee Daniel Khalife from HMP Wandsworth in 2023, which led to intense scrutiny of procedural failures. Charlie Taylor, the Chief Inspector of Prisons, has previously warned that such mistakes are happening "all the time", indicating systemic issues.
As the search for Liam Wall continues, the focus remains on public safety and the urgent need to return him to custody.
