A massive search is happening right now in France. Law enforcement is searching for a prisoner who escaped and his helpers after a brutal attack. Two correctional officers were killed, and three others were hurt.
- An armed gang ambushed a prison van on the highway
- They freed a convicted criminal named Muhammed Amra during the attack
- The violent ambush was caught on camera at a toll booth
- Now hundreds of police are hunting for Amra and his accomplices
Does this sound wild? Keep reading to learn all the details about this shocking crime.
The Highway Ambush
Early Wednesday morning, a white prison van was driving on a highway near the city of Ruan. Inside was inmate Muhammed Amra, who was on his way to jail.
Suddenly, a dark car rammed into the van as it went through a toll booth. At least two masked attackers jumped out, firing guns wildly. Terrified people on a bus threw themselves to the floor.
Security footage shows Amra casually walking out of the van. He was wearing white sneakers. The armed gang then torched their car to cover their escape. Two prison officers never made it out alive.
Who Is Muhammed Amra?
The 30-year-old Amra has a lengthy criminal record. He was convicted of robbery and thought to be connected to a deadly kidnapping. Authorities call him a “drug boss” linked to violent gangs.
Amra is now public enemy number one in France. Hundreds of police officers and special forces are tracking his every move. But it’s unclear how close they are to catching him and his armed accomplices.
Investigating the Brazen Attack
For now, investigators are collecting any evidence they can at the crime scene. The burnt-out car that rammed the van may provide clues about the gang.
In parliament, the French prime minister said the nation mourns the tragic deaths of the officers. He called the ambush an attack of “unprecedented violence and brutality.”
Shocking Level of Force
While violent crimes do happen, this open attack on law enforcement is sporadic in France. The indiscriminate shooting and killing have left many French citizens shaken and disturbed.
A security expert said the brazen ambush shows how some criminal gangs have access to heavy weaponry. It also underscores the growing gang violence overwhelming places like the city of Marseille.
Conclusion
Tonight, as the far-reaching search continues, French authorities are focused on one goal – capturing Muhammed Amra at all costs. He has been elevated to the country’s most wanted status after the ruthless highway attack.
Will law enforcement be able to track down Amra and his accomplices before they can strike again? Only time will tell in this shocking case that has rattled all of France.
