A notorious armed robber who refused to eat for the past two weeks after being transferred to prison has been rushed to hospital.
Anthony John Smith, 44, began his hunger strike on July 3 after being transferred from Yatala Labour Prison to a penal facility in Port Augusta, more than 300 kilometres from his family.
The long-term prisoner was returned to Yatala amid concerns his protest could lead to a prison death. However, he continued his hunger strike after being denied regular family visits and wanted to raise awareness of Aboriginal prison deaths.
“Anthony’s requests are reasonable, he is asking to be housed in a single-person cell in F Ward and to return to his original regimen which allowed regular visits and communication between him, me and our children,” his partner said. Seven news.
“The importance of maintaining these family ties cannot be overstated, especially given the special needs of our children and the important role a present father plays in their lives.”
Smith was reportedly taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Wednesday.
His family claims they were not informed of his current condition and that Smith was not given permission to do so.
They have previously expressed concerns for his welfare, claiming he is in trouble both mentally and emotionally.
Anthony John Smith (pictured) went on hunger strike after being transferred from Yatala Labour Prison to Port Augusta
It is understood Smith was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Wednesday
“He was on his seventh day without food and was struggling both mentally and emotionally. His well-being had been at risk for days,” a family member posted online last week.
“This situation is about more than just a transfer, it highlights the ongoing injustices and inhumane treatment he has endured.”
Smith is serving 24 years in prison, after being sentenced to 30 years, after pleading guilty to a series of armed robberies in 1999 and 2000.
He was only 19 when he robbed the Buckingham Arms hotel in Walkerville.
He became the state’s most wanted man after he escaped while visiting his ailing father in hospital.
While on the run, he robbed two banks before finally being caught.
Smith was denied parole in 2021 after serving 18 years of his prison sentence.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Department for Correctional Services for comment.
Smith (pictured) robbed an ANZ bank and a Myrtle Bank