Inmate who escaped from Tasmania's Risdon Prison captured 'after taking child hostage'

A prisoner who escaped from Risdon Prison near Hobart, Tasmania, has been apprehended after being confronted by police.

ABC Tasmania reported that the man had taken a child hostage and was on a boat, armed with a knife, when he surrendered himself to authorities.

The child was reportedly released unharmed.

A Tasmania Police spokeswoman confirmed the man, who escaped from the minimum security unit at 8.30am this morning, had been arrested.

She said the police were not able to confirm any other details at this stage.

The man, who was described as having short dark hair and a rats tail, escaped at around 8.30am this morning wearing brown cargo pants and an orange high visibility top.

Tasmania Police established roadblocks on East Derwent Highway, Grasstree Hill Road, and Sugarloaf Road among others as they searched for the man.

The public was urged not to approach the prisoner but instead to report sightings to authorities.

Risdon Prison Complex is located in Risdon Vale near Hobart.

Police have not released details about the identity of the prisoner or how they escaped.

This is a developing story. More information will be added as it comes to hand.

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