A VIOLENT thug who launched a vicious attack on his disabled friend is still on the run from police — three years after being released from prison.

James Muldoon was jailed in 2011 after hitting pal Mark Davies with a metal pole then pouring turpentine on him.

Muldoon and another man turned on Mr Davies, who has cerebral palsy, after a day of drinking.

After hitting Mr Davies in with a metal pole, he pushed him onto a sofa and punched him, then threatened to set a dog on him.

The 31-year-old, who has links to Breightmet, also threatened him with a knife and a hammer.

He was jailed for two years but after being released on licence in 2012 he went on the run following an alleged assault.

Police have so far drawn a blank in their efforts to trace Muldoon but hope to track him down this week as they launch Operation Olympus — a crackdown on wanted suspects.

The region-wide operation will see more than 150 specialist officers drafted in across Greater Manchester.

Police have followed up enquiries across Bolton and in north Wales, where Muldoon also has links, but have so far failed to track him down.

Detectives have also analysed bank accounts and insurance policies belonging to Muldoon.

The police picture is now a few years old, and detectives are warning people that Muldoon, one of Bolton's longest-standing wanted criminals, may since have changed his appearance.

Muldoon would have served any prison sentence imposed by now had he not absconded.

Police have previously described him as a "violent man" who should not be approached by members of the public.

Operation Olympus will see Bolton police aided by specialist units.

Supt Craig Thompson said: “This operation is all about targeting those criminals who cause the most harm to innocent members of the community.

“The safety of our residents is paramount and we will make sure that during this week of action, there will be nowhere to hide for those who think that criminality is acceptable.

“We will be using every resource available to find these criminals in and bring them to justice for their crimes.”

Anyone found to be assisting or harbouring Muldoon or any wanted suspect will face arrest and a possible prison sentence.

If you have information on a wanted suspect, you can contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.