A huge manhunt was launched this evening after seven detainees escaped from a police van in Ladysmith.

Twelve detainees had been transported from the Dundee Magistrate’s Court  – where they appeared today on various charges – when, upon entering Ladysmith, the back door of the van was allegedly kicked open at the Helpmekaar Road intersection in the Model Kloof area.

Seven men fled the vehicle and headed into the surrounding area.

Police units from Dundee, Glencoe, Wasbank and Ladysmith, including K9 units, have since been deployed to track down the escapees.

Anyone with any information regarding the escapees is urged to contact their nearest police station.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.

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