A female prisoner has escaped the custody of corrections while receiving treatment at Auckland City Hospital.
In a statement released on Thursday the Department of Corrections said the woman was on remand for drug offences when she escaped.
"Corrections is working with Police to assist them to locate a female prisoner who absconded today while receiving on-going treatment for a serious health condition at Auckland City Hospital.
"The prisoner, who is on remand for drug offences had been escorted by corrections officers from Auckland Region Women's Corrections Facility," a Department of Corrections spokesperson said.
The Department of Corrections is unable to provide any more information at this time.
Auckland City Hospital says that full security procedures were followed and the hospital remained open to patients.
"Auckland City Hospital activated security procedures designed to protect the safety of staff, patients and visitors, including limiting access to the hospital, and an increased security presence.
"The hospital remained open for patients and visitors and full access has since been restored," an Auckland District Health Board spokesperson said.
The hospital is liaising with the Police and Department of Corrections.
Newshub.
