Notorious armed robber Tony Smith launches hunger strike in prison

An armed robber serving a 30-year prison sentence has gone on a hunger strike after being relocated to another facility.

A notorious armed robber has launched a hunger strike in prison after he was relocated, sparking fears for his life, 7NEWS has reported.

Tony Smith, who is serving a 30-year sentence, started the hunger strike in protest of his move from Yatala to Port Augusta Prison this week.

His family now worry for his life and health.

SA armed robber and prison escapee Anthony John Smith driven back to prison after pleading guilty to a number of armed robberies 17 Oct 2002.

Mr Smith pleaded guilty to multiple armed robberies committed in 1999 and 2000 after he escaped custody. He was arrested after robbing the Buckingham Arms hotel at Walkerville as a teenager but became South Australia’s most wanted man after fleeing custody.

Mr Smith is seeking a return to Yatala to be closer to his family, 7NEWS reports.

SA armed robber prison escapee Anthony John Smith at Radisson Plaza Hotel while a fugitive from the law.

But the department would not reveal to the network why Mr Smith was transferred.

Mr Smith’s request has been backed by Aboriginal leaders.

Scott Wilson from the Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Council said it was a seven hour drive to Port Augusta, with loved ones getting around an hour-long visit.

“The social and emotional wellbeing of that prisoner or that offender should be taken into account,” he said.

Originally published as Notorious armed robber Tony Smith launches hunger strike in prison