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In a statement, Webb said that around 1 a.m. Friday, security at the Grand Millenium hotel site intercepted a woman trying to escape through an emergency exit.
After questioning, it was learned that he had previously successfully escaped between 1:07 am and 3:09 am Thursday morning.
“Normally, all emergency exits that cannot be monitored by CCTV or that are not alarmed are monitored by security guards posted near them. Unfortunately, a local decision was made that meant those guards were elsewhere that night.” Webb said.
CCTV footage is being reviewed to understand her movements, but she walked through the city center.
Judith Collins, leader of the National Party, is not impressed and is critical of the government.
“I’ve always said these guys couldn’t organize anything. They just can’t. With a managed isolation system, they could be using Bluetooth technology on people with their phones, but also with a COVID-type card. They could be doing a lot better in terms of really manage it, “he told media on Saturday.
“Hearing that this person tried to escape and had already successfully escaped the night before and for a two-hour excursion to somewhere in the city and then reappeared.
Collins said Webb was “yet another person in charge,” referring to a line of other officials and ministers with responsibility for certain aspects of the isolation facilities and activities conducted there.
“My opinion is that I never personally attack or attack public servants for this because they have ministers to whom they respond. I would look for the ministers. They are the ones in charge.”
In his statement Friday, Webb said escape incidents are “rare, but we treat them extremely seriously.”
“While I am sure we have strong security measures in place, these hotels are not prisons and this person voluntarily escaped once, and then tried to repeat this the following night when he was caught by security.
“There are rules for every returnee and we expect people to follow them during their 14-day stay in controlled isolation. This is so they can return to the community safely, while ensuring the safety of all New Zealanders.”
He said nearly 60,000 people had passed through the facility and that there were only 10 incidents involving 14 people coming out of controlled isolation.
The woman who tried to escape Friday tested negative for the virus. It arrived from Dubai on October 7 and tested negative on October 1 before flying. His next test was scheduled for Saturday, in accordance with the testing routine for day three.
“The public health assessment is ongoing as interviews and investigations continue to identify the nature of any contact with individuals outside of the managed isolation facility,” Webb said.
“However, it is reassuring that the tests before arrival and also this morning are negative and that she is asymptomatic. Standard COVID-19 procedures were followed by the police and personnel who were in contact with the person.”
“A permanent security presence has been established outside your room to ensure you remain on the premises.”
He noted that police charges are likely.
