French Prison Officers Killed in Ambush on Prison Van in Normandy: Manhunt Underway

Two French prison officers were tragically killed in an ambush on a prison van near Rouen in Normandy, sparking a massive manhunt for the perpetrators. Reports indicate that an inmate being transported in the van managed to escape with the attackers, leading to a heightened sense of urgency in capturing them.

French President Emmanuel Macron assured the public that “everything is being done to find the perpetrators,” while Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti revealed that three officers were seriously injured in the attack and are currently hospitalized.

The inmate at the center of the incident has been identified as Mohamed A., born in 1994, with a history of criminal convictions for drug offenses and attempted homicide. French media outlets have dubbed him “La Mouche” – the Fly.

The ambush, which occurred near a toll booth on the A154 motorway, involved several individuals who approached the prison convoy in two vehicles. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the detainee and the attackers fled in a car that was later found burnt out nearby.

Images circulating on social media show hooded gunmen approaching the convoy, although the authenticity of the footage has not been verified. Mr. Dupond-Moretti condemned the attack, emphasizing that “everything will be put in place to find the perpetrators of this vile crime.”

The tragic loss of two officers has left families devastated, with one officer leaving behind a wife and two children who were preparing to celebrate a milestone birthday. The other officer’s wife is five months pregnant, adding to the heartbreak of the situation.

As the manhunt intensifies, French authorities are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that those responsible for this heinous act face appropriate consequences.