Police in Blantyre have shot dead two armed robbers who were among a gang of thieves that targeted the Machinjiri Simso Filling Station.

South West Police Region spokesperson Joseph Sauka said the alleged criminals, armed with panga knives and other weapons, attacked fuel attendants, a guard, and a shopkeeper.

Sauka, however, said one guard escaped and informed the police, who rushed to the crime scene and shot the two suspects.

They died on arrival at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.

The police say they have recovered all the stolen items but have intensified investigations to apprehend other suspects who fled the scene.