Violent child rapist on the run after escaping escort in Perth

A major search operation has been launched after a violent child rapist escaped his escort on Friday.

Cliff Lyons Dobbie, who is a restricted patient, absconded in Perth city centre while on community leave.

He was convicted of raping a ten-year-old girl in Glasgow while on bail for sexually abusing a 12-year-old boy in 1990.

Dobbie has been housed in secure units, including State Hospital Carstairs, ever since.

The on-the-run sex offender is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 3in tall, of stocky and muscular build.

CCTV images have been released Police Scotland

Dobbie is bald, has blue eyes, and a noticeable squint, which is more apparent when he is not wearing his glasses.

He was last seen wearing white trainers, light blue ripped jeans, a salmon-coloured golf shirt and a light blue jumper. He also wore a black cap and thick black-rimmed glasses. The patient was carrying a black backpack and a black puffer jacket.

Dobbie has distinctive tattoos on both arms, including an image of two blue tiger-like eyes on his right arm and a blue and red Rangers tattoo on his left arm. He speaks with a strong Glaswegian accent.

Inspector Kris McCall, Police Scotland, said: “We want to trace Cliff, who also uses the name Clifford Lyons or Dobbie, as quickly as possible. I’d be interested to hear from anyone who has seen or spoken to him since Thursday, 6 August, 2026. He has links to Glasgow and the surrounding areas.

“The public should not approach him but should report any sighting to Police Scotland.

“Those with information should contact police immediately on 101 or 999, or speak to any officer. Please use incident number 1696 of August 6, 2026.”