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Maghaberry Prison has released a suspected killer in error.

Michael Lawrence Smith, 38, had been on remand in prison facing a murder charge when he was released yesterday.

He has been described by Kevin Geddes, the head of the PSNI's serious crime branch, as "dangerous" with "an extensive history of violence".

Det Supt Kevin Geddes said: “Michael Smith, who is deemed as dangerous, was last seen in the Belfast area at 2pm on Tuesday 7 March.



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



“I would ask Mr Smith to hand himself in to the authorities without any further delay and ask anyone who knows of his current whereabouts or who has any information to contact police on 999.”



A PSNI spokesman said: "Police are seeking information as to the whereabouts of a prisoner who has failed to return to Maghaberry Prison.

"Michael Lawrence Smith was released erroneously by the Prison Service on Tuesday 7 March and has failed to return to the prison.

"Mr Smith, who is currently on remand for murder, had previously applied for High Court bail for this offence. Police strenuously objected and bail was refused."

A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Prison Service said: “The matters surrounding the erroneous release of Michael Lawrence Smith are currently under investigation.

"The prison service would urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the police immediately.”