Police are searching for an 18-year-old suspect who escaped from North District Hospital on Monday afternoon.

He was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of offences such as drug trafficking, driving without a licence, careless driving and unauthorised vehicle use.

While in custody, the teenager was sent to hospital after he reported feeling unwell.

The suspect was then found to have fled the hospital at around 5.45pm on Monday.

Police described him as being around 1.75 metres tall, of slim build, with short brown hair. At the time of the escape, he was shirtless and wearing hospital trousers.

Officers are appealing to anyone with information to contact them.