Christine Kay
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (July 15/02) - RCMP knocked on doors in the city of Iqaluit July 7, looking for an escaped inmate from the Baffin Correctional Centre.

Simeonie Alariaq was being held in the facility while awaiting a court appearance.

He was charged by Cape Dorset police with breaking and entering as well as possession of stolen property.

Police say Alariaq escaped the facility by simply climbing the fence while in the exercise yard outside.

Annette Bourgeois, press secretary for Premier Paul Okalik, who is also the minister of justice, said an internal investigation to review security procedures at the centre will be undertaken.

The results of this investigation will be available in two to three weeks time and will determine whether or not changes are needed to make the centre more secure.

Alariaq was at large for about three hours when apprehended again by the police.

RCMP Sgt. Kirke Hopkins in Iqaluit said Alariaq was found in the vicinity of House 130. Alariaq will be charged for escaping lawful custody.