Police searching addresses in Sunderland in hunt to find fugitive who has been on the run for weeks

Detectives hunting for a fugitive in Sunderland have appealed to the public for help in a bid to track him down after searching addresses across the city.
Robert Friendship Smith, 23, is wanted by police in connection with an assault and breach of police bailRobert Friendship Smith, 23, is wanted by police in connection with an assault and breach of police bail
Robert Friendship Smith, 23, is wanted by police in connection with an assault and breach of police bail

Robert Friendship Smith, 23, is wanted by police in connection with an assault and breach of police bail.

Officers have searched a number of addresses across Wearside in a bid to locate Smith.

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Northumbria Police say Smith is avoiding police and has done for weeks, despite knowing he is wanted in connection with criminal activity.

Now the force has asked members of the community who knows his whereabouts to get in touch.

Detective Chief Inspector Michelle Robson, of Northumbria Police, said: “Robert Friendship Smith has been avoiding police for a number of weeks and he is well aware that we need to speak to him.

“We are carrying out a range of enquiries in a bid to locate him, but today we are asking anybody who knows his whereabouts – or who has seen him in the Sunderland area recently – to come forward with any information you may have.

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“It is a criminal offence to harbour someone who is evading arrest and we do not want anyone to get into trouble on his account.

“It would be best for everyone involved if Smith hands himself in to police so we can speak to him about this ongoing assault investigation.”

Anyone with information about Smith's whereabouts is encouraged to contact police immediately on 101 quoting reference 0568415. Alternatively, you can report information to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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