Inmate on run for 31 years let go

A PRISONER on day release who failed to return to open jail for 31 years cannot be punished, a court heard.

Drug dealer Shabbir Hussain was nearing the end of his sentence in March 1989 when he was allowed out to stay overnight at home. He did not return to HMP Standford Hill in Sheerness, Kent and, despite his details being circulated by police, was not arrested until this summer – aged 70.

The pensioner was recalled to serve the rest of his 1986 term for conspiracy to supply class A drugs and handed a further 28 days by the prison’s independent adjudicator.

When Hussain appeared at Maidstone Crown Court to admit being a temporarily released prisoner unlawfully at large, prosecutor Daniel Stevenson said it was not illegal until 1995 and the law could not be applied retrospectively. He added: “There was and is no offence.” Hussain was likely to be freed from custody immediately.