Chris Matlou (27) and Ngoako Jonathan Ngaoto (28) were being transported in a police van from prison in Venda to Phalaborwa, where they were due to be sentenced today.

Matlou is charged with rape and murder whilst Ngaoto is charged with rape.

According to information the convicts were being transported by two constables from Phalaborwa and escaped at the Selwane turn off and ran into the bush nearby.

Read: GIYANI: Massive manhunt for escaped prisoners

Phalaborwa SAPS requested help and man power to aid in the search for the suspects from Phalaborwa CPF at 15:20.

A dog tracking unit responded quickly and set about tracking the suspects.

Read: Prisoners escape from dilapidated prison in Tzaneen

Members of the Phalaborwa CPF, Phalaborwa SAPS, Ofcolaco Farm Watch, Canine Security, Hoedspruit Farmwatch and Makutsi Anti-Poaching all assisted in the search.

By 23:20 the dogs started losing the track and the search was called off at 00:30 as even the new dogs were tired and the track went cold.

Letaba Herald will keep the community updated.