Urgent warning as dangerous Brit escapes Portuguese prison near Lisbon

Mark Roscaleer, a British criminal serving a nine-year sentence for kidnap and robbery, escaped from Vale de Judeus Prison in Alcoentre, Portugal, along with four other inmates. The escape occurred on a Saturday morning, facilitated by accomplices who provided ladders and a getaway car. This incident has raised serious concerns regarding prison security, particularly following a controversial decision to replace watchtowers with surveillance cameras, which are reportedly inadequately monitored due to staffing shortages. Roscaleer has a history of criminal activity, including a previous escape from HMP Kirkham in Lancashire, where he was serving time for aggravated burglary. His past includes a violent robbery in which he and an accomplice tortured a victim to extract information about hidden cash. Following this incident, he was extradited to Portugal, where he continued to serve his sentence until the recent breakout. In response to the escape, Spanish police have issued an urgent warning to the public, particularly British holidaymakers, to assist in locating the fugitives. International arrest warrants have been issued for all five escapees, and police have released mugshots to aid in their capture. The authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The mass escape has prompted an ongoing investigation into the prison's security measures and the circumstances surrounding the breakout. The incident highlights the challenges faced by prison systems in maintaining security and the potential risks posed by dangerous criminals on the loose.