PACEMAKER BELFAST POLICE are hunting for a prisoner who failed to return to Magilligan Prison after being released on day release. Stephen Henry (41) did not return to jail after being allowed out yesterday to visit family.

Police have warned the public not to approach 41-year-old Stephen Henry who was jailed for murdering father-of-two John Cooke in Lisburn in 2004 with a Samurai sword.

Sentencing him two years later, a judge said Henry had “behaved like a savage”, attacking Mr Cooke as he “begged for his life”.

Henry was last seen in Craigavon on Monday at around 3.45pm.

Police said he failed to return to Magilligan Prison on Monday under the conditions of a day-release pass he had been given to visit family.

Detective Sergeant McColgan said: “We believe that Stephen Henry, who was jailed for murder in 2004, is dangerous and may be in either the Craigavon or Belfast area.

“He is described as being 5’10” in height, of medium build with short brown hair. He has tattoos on both upper arms and scars on his forehead and left ear.

“He was last seen in the Craigavon area at around 3.45pm yesterday.

“He has a history of violence and I would urge the public not to approach him but to contact police immediately.