Escaped prisoner who fled brother’s funeral believed to be in Melbourne, police say

Police in Melbourne are searching for Orijol Rukaj, an accused drug importer who escaped custody while attending his brother's funeral six weeks ago. Authorities believe he is still in the metropolitan area and may have been assisted by associates.
Why it matters
The escape of a high-profile prisoner with alleged organized crime ties poses a significant public safety concern and raises questions about custodial security protocols.
Victoria police believe Orijol Rukaj is still in the metropolitan Melbourne area, after the accused drug importer escaped custody while attending his brother’s funeral. Photograph: Kzenon/Alamy View image in fullscreen Victoria police believe Orijol Rukaj is still in the metropolitan Melbourne area, after the accused drug importer escaped custody while attending his brother’s funeral. Photograph: Kzenon/Alamy Melbourne Escaped prisoner who fled brother’s funeral believed to be in Melbourne, police say Orijol Rukaj was on pallbearer duties when he evaded corrections staff – and has been on the run for the six weeks since
The article provides a factual account of a police search and the circumstances of a prisoner escape.
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