A POLICE are still hunting for a convicted South Wales sex offender who absconded from prison.

Brian Ward, 37, from Pontyclun, has been wanted since November 2013 when he absconded midway through his trial at Newport Crown Court, which went on to find him guilty.

Although South wales Police’s search has shifted to Merthyr Tydfil, where a member of the public has said he may be, Ward also has links to Newport, Aberdare, London and Malta.

He has been known to use alias surnames such as Wood, Cordina, and Bryant and Rose.

Detective Inspector Dave Peart, said: “We believe he may be in Merthyr, and somebody, somewhere is putting a roof over his head.

“I want to remind them that they are committing a serious criminal offence.

“Anyone who has seen him is urged to call us immediately - one simple call can ensure he faces the justice he deserves.

“There is a five-year prison sentence waiting for him when we catch up with him and we will continue to look until we find him,” he added.

Anyone who has information about where he or who thinks they have seen him, is urged to contact South Wales Police via 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.