Six Zimbabweans all suspected armed robbers escaped from custody while on transit yesterday morning after their accomplices engaged South African police in a shoot-out.

In a statement, the South African police said they have launched a manhunt for the “heavily armed” suspects who freed the six prisoners during a gunfight.

The daring attack was staged some 120 kilometres south of Beitbridge border near Zimbabwe. Police said people are advised not to approach the suspects under any circumstances as they are considered dangerous but must instead call the police.