A MAN who is wanted after being convicted of criminal damage, breaching a non molestation order and perverting the course of justice may be in the Worcester area.

Awat Esmail was found guilty of the offences, which all occurred in the Worcester area, in his absence at Hereford Crown Court on April 15 this year but police have since been unable to locate him and bring him into custody.

Detectives in Worcester are now appealing for the public’s help to trace him before his next appearance in court when he will be sentenced on Friday, July 5.

Detective Constable Shelley Orr, from CID in Worcester, said: “We want to trace Mr Esmail as soon as we can so he can be formally brought to justice. He knows he has been convicted and is being sought by police and we have no doubt he is deliberately evading capture.

“Having been born in Iraq, Mr Esmail – who speaks English but with a very strong accent - has most recently lived in the Birmingham area and we feel he is most likely to be in that area now.

“However, he also has links with Worcester and Stratford so there is the distinct possibility he may have been seen in these areas too.

“We would like anyone who knows where Mr Esmail is to call us as soon as they can. If anyone is harbouring him I would warn them that they will be dealt with robustly when we find out.

“If you have any information regarding Mr Esmail’s whereabouts, we would urge you to contact us.”

Anyone who spots Awat Esmail should call officers in Worcester by dialling 101 and quoting reference number C/00124/13 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.