On Tuesday, gunmen in France ambushed a prison van conveying prisoners from court to prison, killing at least two guards and injuring three. 

French police said the attackers and some prisoners escaped during the attack, but a manhunt has been launched.

Gérald Darmanin, France’s interior minister, in a tweet, commiserated with families of the bereaved,  ordering a manhunt for those behind the attack.

“Sincere and saddened condolences to the bereaved families and agents of the Ministry of Justice,” Mr Darmanin said. 

“The “Epervier” plan was triggered. All means are being used to find these criminals. On my instructions, several hundred police officers and gendarmes were mobilised.”

President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the attack in a tweet, saying everything is done to bring the perpetrators to book.

“This morning’s attack, which cost the lives of prison officers, is a shock to us all. The Nation stands alongside the families, the injured and their colleagues,” Mr Macron said.

Mr Macron added, “Everything is being done to find the perpetrators of this crime so that justice can be done in the name of the French people.”