ONE of the country's most wanted criminals has managed to dodge cops - four years after going on the run.

Scar-faced Jonathan Kelly remains "unlawfully at large" but Police Scotland insist they will follow up on any potential sighting of the dangerous fugitive.

The violent thug, who paralysed a man with a machete, was released from Low Moss Prison in Bishopbriggs on licence back in August, 2014.

Upon release, he failed to comply with his license conditions on numerous occasions.

His license was revoked on September 9, and since then Kelly has been on the run.

One of the city's top detectives urged anyone with information over his whereabouts to come forward.

Detective Inspector Greig Wilkie said: "Jonathan Kelly remains unlawfully at large almost four years from when he was last seen following his release from Low Moss Prison and his license revoked after he failed to comply with imposed conditions.

"Police Scotland officers will continue to follow up on any new information and potential sightings of him."

The Evening Times previously revealed that it was understood that Kelly failed a drugs test in the days before he vanished and was set to be returned to jail for at least another decade.

He faced a long stretch, with no release until 2024 at the earliest. But he has managed to evade the authorities for four years with no signs they are closer to catching him.

Previously, the charity Crimestoppers', who named him on a hit list of dangerous criminals on the run, forked out a £5,000 reward for information on his whereabouts.

A UK-wide appeal was also broadcast on BBC's Crimewatch after police called on the popular show to help find him.

Today, a most wanted poster continues to circulate and remains on Police Scotland's official website.

The poster states: "Kelly was born in Glasgow in 1980. He has several scars including a large scar on both cheeks, a scar on his right hand knuckle and a large scar on his right arm. Kelly occasionally has a beard."

He is described as 5ft 9 inches, of average build with short brown hair.

Anyone who has information on Jonathan Kelly's whereabouts should contact police via 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.