In a dramatic escape, four men have fled from a secure psychiatric facility in Straubing, Lower Bavaria.

The escapees, aged 27, 28, and 31, reportedly threatened a staff member at the Lerchenhaid District Hospital before making their way towards the Alburg district.

The police have launched an extensive manhunt, deploying all available resources, including helicopters and search dogs, to locate the fugitives.

While the police have not yet assessed the danger posed by these individuals, they have urged the public not to pick up hitchhikers or approach suspicious persons, advising instead to contact emergency services via 110. Two of the men were detained for drug-related offenses, while the other two were held for theft.

The community remains on high alert as the search continues.