A manhunt is underway after six awaiting trial prisoners this morning escaped with the help of heavily armed suspects.

The incident occurred in Makhado and Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo says officers transported the prisoners on the Vivo road next to the first Schoemansdal turn-off when they were shot at by the group of armed men.

The men then freed the prisoners and they all sped off in a grey sedan and white bakkie.

These prisoners escaped during the attack:

“All escapees are Zimbabwean nationals. The first five were arrested for aggravated robbery, three counts of attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition while the last suspect was arrested for cable theft,” his statement reads.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has ordered the mobilisation of the necessary police resources, including the airwing, to hunt down the escapees and the suspects.

“People are advised not to approach the suspects under any circumstances as they are considered dangerous. They should instead call the police. Anyone with information may contact Colonel Nyelisani Mabatha on 082 565 8171, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send a message via the MySAPS app.”