SIX Rohingya detainees were killed when they broke out from an Immigration detention centre in Sungai Bakap, Penang, early this morning.

They were among 528 Rohingya detainees who made a break for it at 4.30am after breaking down a door and a grill barrier.

Penang police chief Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain six of the escapees were killed in a road accident while trying to flee.

“They died in a road accident at Km165 of the North-South Highway at about 6.50am while fleeing the depot. 

“Two adult men, two adult women, a girl and a boy were killed,” he said.

As a result of the crash, 229 escapees did not dare to cross the highway.

Immigration Department director-general Khairul Dzaimee Daud said a manhunt has been launched to nab the escapees.

”Officers on duty have contacted the police and relevant agencies for assistance.

“As of 10am today, a total of 362 detainees have been arrested,” he said.

Khairul said the search for the detainees was carried out with the cooperation of the police, Rela and the public.

Kedah police chief Wan Hassan Wan Ahmad is expected to hold a press conference on the case at 12.30pm. – April 20, 2022.