Manhunt Launched in France After Gunmen Ambush Prison Convoy, Killing Guards and Freeing Convict
French authorities have launched a manhunt following a violent attack on a prison convoy in Normandy, resulting in the death of two guards and injuries to three others. The incident, which included gunmen breaking out an inmate, is considered extremely rare for the region of northern France. The convoy was transporting a prisoner from court to a nearby prison when the ambush occurred. Video footage from the scene showed a black SUV in flames, which seemed to have collided with a prison van near a motorway toll booth. Two hooded individuals were observed carrying what appeared to be long rifles.
French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti addressed the media, highlighting that this was the first instance of a French prison employee dying on duty since 1992. He expressed condolences for the families of the deceased guards and shared that two of the injured individuals were in critical condition. The gunmen responsible for the attack are still at large, according to national police.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has mobilized law enforcement agencies for a widespread manhunt to locate both the suspects and the escaped inmate, who has a history of multiple convictions. The state prosecutor provided details on the burnt-out vehicles used by the assailants and continued investigations at the crime scene.
Emmanuel Macron, the French President, emphasized the nation's commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring accountability for the heinous crime. The authorities are dedicated to apprehending the individuals responsible for the attack and providing closure for the victims and their families.
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