Johannesburg 'Jail Break' Blast Kills Three

An explosion has killed three men and injured 14 during a suspected prison van escape attempt in South Africa.

The blast occurred as two policemen were taking 36 prisoners from Randburg court to a prison complex in Johannesburg.

"There was an explosion in one of our vehicles at the traffic light in front of the facility," police spokesman Neville Malila said.

The reason for the blast has not yet been determined, but police suspect it came from within the bus and was part of an escape plot.

Shortly after the blast, two prisoners attempted to flee the scene.

Both were caught, and the driver of the van was able to pull into the prison complex.

Mr Malila said:  "Murder, possession of explosives and escape from lawful custody are being investigated."

Three ambulances and a fire engine were seen leaving the prison complex under police escort.

It is not known what type of explosive was used.

Mr Malila added: "Our experts are establishing that at the moment."