Prison escape rumours unfounded: police

The helicopter noises heard throughout the Greater Bunbury region last night were caused by extra surveillance units being available in case of crime.

Bunbury Const. Allan Glover said the helicopters had been made available from Perth and came down to the Greater Bunbury region to catch crime as it happened.

“The helicopters were requested in case a car was stolen or something else but nothing happened,” he said.

The helicopters could be heard from about 10pm-11pm last night and reports were there was no use of search lights.

“The lights aren’t on unless they are actively chasing someone,” Const. Glover said.

“They had a look around Bunbury and Australind and went back to Perth.”

Rumours started to emerge on the internet soon after the helicopters could be heard last night.

One rumour was of a prison break, which Bunbury Regional Prison Supt Kerri Bishop said was false.

“The helicopters had nothing whatsoever to do with the prison,” Supt Bishop said.

“All our prisoners are here, the prison is very safe and secure.”