A manhunt is under way in the Canadian city of Moncton after three police officers were shot dead and two hurt.

Police said they were searching for Justin Bourque, 24, who was "armed and dangerous", and tweeted a picture of a suspect with weapons. Officials have warned people to stay inside and lock their doors.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police told the BBC the officers were shot responding to reports of an armed man wearing camouflageclothing.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has offered his condolences to those affected. "The sacrifice of these brave officers will be honoured and remembered." he said.

Witnesses said they heard the first shots in north-west Moncton at about 20:00 local time (23:00 GMT) on Wednesday. More shots were reported about two hours later.

Police searched through the night and continued their operations at daybreak, with officers combing wooded areas. Schools are closed and buses are not running.

The two wounded RCMP officers were taken to hospital and are in a stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries, a police spokesman said.

Officers have blocked off a number of roads in Moncton and traffic is reported to be backed up on major routes across the city.

Drivers have been asked to stay away from the area.

In a statement, New Brunswick Premier David Alward said he was "shocked and saddened".

"I would ask New Brunswickers, particularly in those areas identified by police, to follow the situation as it develops and to listen to the advice of police," he said.

Moncton's mayor George LeBlanc said: "This is a terrible loss and a tragedy for the families and for all of us here in the city. [We must] pull together as a family to support those who have suffered."

Mr Harper said the incident was "a stark reminder that our men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line in Canada every day to protect our citizens and communities".