“A total of nine… escaped from Klerksdorp Magistrate Court,” after overpowering guards, said police spokesman Thulani Ngubane.

“They are serious criminals.”

He urged the public not to approach the men and alert the authorities if they are spotted.

The detainees made their escape Wednesday when an officer came to release a man who had been granted bail.

He was overpowered by those left inside the cell, nine of whom managed to get away, Ngubane told AFP.

“One unfortunately met a police officer who was on his way from lunch who was outside the court and rearrested him,” he said.