The Launceston police officer was one of 10 in the strike team that searched the property for fugitives Kyle Leslie Lynch, 19, and James Peter Sampson, 22, on Australia Day.

The two men were retaken into custody at 12.50pm, ending a five-day statewide manhunt that began when the men were reported missing from Ron Barton Minimum Security Prison at Risdon Vale last Saturday.

Lynch and Sampson faced the Launceston Magistrates Court yesterday.

Lynch was charged with escape and the aggravated assault of the police officer.

Lynch had grazing to his face and a black right eye, understood to be injuries he sustained during his recapture. He will reappear via video link on February 13.

Sampson also appeared charged with one count of escape. He will reappear via video link on February 21.

Family and friends waited outside the adjacent police station when the men were escorted from court, cheering and shouting ``Onya, bro!''

Four people have been interviewed and will be charged with harbouring the escaped criminals, including a 34-year-old West Tamar woman and a 27-year-old Riverside woman.

``We are concentrating our efforts in relation to those that assisted the escapees, and from the information we have at the moment we believe we will charge a substantial number of persons,'' Detective Sergeant Mike Gillies said.

Detective Sergeant Gillies said police were still investigating how the men made it from the prison to the North.

``While one area of inquiry investigated by us was in relation to a motor vehicle stolen from Risdon Vale that was recovered in George Town, to date we have limited evidence to link the fugitives or anyone involved in helping them with that matter,'' Detective Sergeant Gillies said.

He said ``considerable'' resources had been tied up in the manhunt, and would continue to be until those who had helped the escapees were brought to justice.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.