Police scour Melbourne in manhunt for prisoner who slipped away during funeral

An escaped prisoner who fled custody after attending a funeral in Melbourne’s north-west may be in hiding somewhere in the Victorian capital, police say.

Orijol Rukaj, 47, was granted day release to attend his brother’s funeral and mourn with loved ones at Keilor East Cemetery on April 25.

Despite being supervised, Rukaj – who was in custody over major drug charges and is described as a medium security prisoner – was able to “leave the cemetery undetected” during the service, police said.

Victoria Police have now been searching for Rukaj for over a month.

However, there have been no confirming sightings since the funeral.

Police attended 20 addresses across Melbourne on Tuesday to speak with the man’s associates.

It is believed he may still be in hiding in the Melbourne area.

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Several people believed to have assisted Rukaj with his plans to escape have been identified, but have since departed the country.

He is known to be affiliated with Albanian crime groups, police said.

Police today released CCTV footage of Rukaj which was captured during his time inside prison earlier this year, which offers the best indication of his current appearance.

Rukaj is described as Caucasian, 170cm tall with short, shaved black hair and a solid build. He also speaks in a southern European accent.

He was last seen wearing a white shirt, black suit and Asics runners.

Rukaj is known to frequent the Sunbury and St Albans areas.

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Police warn anyone found to be harbouring or assisting him may face severe penalties.

“Rukaj is not believed to be violent but members of the public are urged to call Triple-Zero immediately if they see him,” Victoria Police said.

Investigators have also appealed to Rukaj to come forward and make himself known to police.

Anyone with information that might assist in locating Rukaj is urged to contact Sunshine Police Station on 9313 3333 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.