Manhunt after officers shot

Authorities in Florida have begun a massive manhunt for two suspects in the shooting of two Tampa police officers during a traffic stop.

Police said an officer pulled over a Toyota Camry at about 2:15am yesterday because it did not have a visible licence plate. Police spokeswoman Laura McElroy said he called for back-up after a check revealed the male passenger in the car was wanted. A witness then called to say two officers had been shot. Ms McElroy said they were taken to hospital in "extremely critical condition".

Helicopters and dozens of officers are searching for the men.