Five remand prisoners escaped from the Suva courthouse cell block yesterday afternoon.

They are Emosi Baledrokadroka, Niko Talemaitoga, Maika Tovagone, Suliano Rokosuka and Jonacani Saliva.

Police Chief of Operations ACP Maretino Qiolevu says the five are facing charges for their alleged involvement in separate aggravated robberies and are considered to be high risk.

Qiolevu says a taskforce is currently searching for the five escapees and the public are reminded that it is a criminal offence to harbour prisoners.

Meanwhile an investigation has been directed to look into the circumstances surrounding the escape of the four from police custody.

If anyone has any information, you are requested to call crime stoppers on 919.