Two French prison officers have been killed in an ambush on a prison van near Rouen in Normandy.
Reports in French media suggest an inmate who was being transported in the van has escaped together with the attackers.
France’s Justice Minister, Eric Dupond-Moretti, said three other officers were severely injured.
He also said he was convening the Justice Ministry’s crisis unit.
The ambush took place around 11:00 (09:00 GMT) near a toll booth on the A154 motorway, which is now closed in both directions.
It was carried out by several individuals who approached the prison convoy in two vehicles, according to AFP.
Unconfirmed reports in French media say the detainee and the attackers escaped in a car that was later found burnt out nearby.
Images posted on social media and used by some French outlets show what appears to be hooded gunmen approaching the convoy. The video has not been verified by the BBC.
Leave a Reply