A Tongan national remains on the run after allegedly stabbing his way to freedom shortly before he was set to be deported.

The 28-year-old detainee was in a car on the way from Villawood Immigration Detention Centre to Sydney Airport when he allegedly attacked two guards on James Ruse Dr at Clyde and fled into the night.

A 54-year-old man was stabbed in the neck and cheek, and a 36-year-old male contractor was assaulted about 3.40am, police said.

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“We believe while he was in the vehicle he’s assaulted both the driver and passenger, allowing him to escape the car,” detective superintendent Simon Glasser said.

It is understood the detainee was set to be deported for overstaying his visa in Australia.

Police raced to the scene to help the injured, while the dog unit searched nearby bushland.

The wanted man was last seeing heading towards Harris Park.

The two workers were taken to Westmead Hospital and are in a stable condition.

Clothing, documents and a sharp object were among the evidence collected at the scene.

The exact circumstances surrounding the escape, including whether the detainee was handcuffed, is “forming part of our inquiries”, Glasser said.

The man is known to frequent Mount Pritchard, with police on alert across Sydney’s southwest

He is described as Pacific Islander/Maori in appearance, with a tanned complexion, a large build, about 180cm tall with black hair, dark eyes and is unshaven.

Members of the public have been told not to approach him and contact police if they have information.

The Australian Border Force has paused transport and escort activity while they investigate.