Jan 10, Avissawella: Sri Lanka police had launched a massive search operation in Avissawella area to arrest ten prisoners who escaped this morning.

The prisoners have escaped from the lock-up of Avissawella courts after attacking three prison officials in the early hours of today, the police said.

They have been brought from the Kuruwita prison complex Wednesday evening to stand for their trials at the Avissawella court today. Two of the suspects have been in detention for murder, the police said.

The Police said one suspect was arrested from the Kosgama area this evening.

Meanwhile, another prisoner who was being escorted back from Panadura court to Kalutara prison escaped removing the gills of the prison bus, prison sources said.