21 Apr 2003

Vanuatu's Correctional Services director suddenly suspended amid hunt for prison escapees

4:41 pm on 21 April 2003

The hunt for four escaped prisoners in Vanuatu has suffered a setback because of the sudden suspension of the Correctional Services director, Captain John Taleo

Captain Taleo has confirmed receiving his letter of suspension from the Police Commissioner, Robert Diniro but he is refusing to disclose the reason for the sudden action.

Reports say Captain Taleo is among the increasing number of police officers who are allegedly being targeted by Mr Diniro over their involvement with the Vanuatu Mobile Force.

Mr Taleo's suspension comes as four armed prisoners are reported to be terrorising people in communities surrounding the capital, Port Vila.

The prisoners were part of a group of six who broke out of Port Vila jail in early March.