One was killed in an escape bid by three robbery suspects held in remand yesterday.

Pandemonium reigned outside the Aluthkade Courts when the three prisoners, who were being taken to the Black Maria, after being produced before the Colombo Magistrate, turned on their guards in an attempt to make a break for freedom. After a scuffle they took to their heels but other prison guards seeing the predicament their colleagues were placed in opened fire on the fleeing trio killing one and injuring another.

The deceased was identified as K. Sisira Kumara.

Hundreds of onlookers who watched the scuffle took to their heels in panic when the shooting began.

Police said that it was lucky that no onlooker or anyone arriving at or leaving the Court premises was hurt.