TWO prison escapees were recaptured at 9:00 am today at Ma'ufanga after armed police squads mounted overnight road blocks on Tongatapu.

In central Nuku'alofa last night a major police presence was evident at roadblocks along the main roads to and from the central business area and in surrounding villages. Police stopped vehicles to inspect car boots and questioned individuals in an ongoing search for the escapees, Sione Movete Uatekini (24), who was believed to be armed, and Peni 'Inia (20).

The cordons continued until this morning when the prisoners were recaptured. The police did not want to release details of where they were captured at this stage.

Deputy Police Commander Taniela Faletau said the two men surrendered to the police after being on the run for over a month since breaking out of maximum security houseing at Hu'atolitoli Prison on July 22.

He said that the prisoners are being kept in police custody for questioning and further investigations into their escape.

Police are also investigating some members of the public who may have harboured or assisted the prisoners while on the run.

Since their escape the police had searched houses and locations day and night over the past weeks.

The Deputy thanked the members of the community for their assistance provided during the search operation.