Andre' Williams, STAR Writer

The St Catherine South Police Division has confirmed that there is still a manhunt on for the five inmates who escaped from custody in Portmore despite none being recaptured THE STAR understands.

According to reports, last Friday at 4:30 a.m., the police were conducting routine checks of a cell when they realised that five inmates were missing.

Further reports indicate that the prisoners made their escape by cutting bars and grilles to their cell.

Our news team understands that in recent times, overcrowding has become an issue at that facility.

THE STAR gathered that the escapees are aged 18 - 34 years old.

Those on the run have been identified as 18-year-old Amir Hanson of Portmore Villa, Portmore, who has been charged for shooting with intent; 19-year-old Andrew Edwards, charged with robbery with aggravation, and 33-year-old Marvin Barnett of Spanish Town, who has been charged with murder. Also on the run are 31-year-old Jomo Burnett of Gregory Park, St Catherine, charged with illegal possession of firearm and ammunition; and 34-year-old Oshane Thomas of Braeton, St Catherine, charged for illegal possession of firearm and robbery with aggravation.

The police are asking that anyone with information contact the Portmore police at 949-8422, 911, or the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, THE STAR understands that an investigation has also been launched into the circumstances surrounding how the inmates managed to escape the facility.