BEIRUT: Security forces foiled Sunday an escape attempt by three inmates, including two members of militant group Fatah al-Islam, at Roumieh jail, Lebanon’s largest prison complex.

The inmates tried to flee the prison through the roof of the ventilation room, security sources said.

The sources added that the three were classified as “dangerous terrorists” who took advantage of the "positive atmosphere" provided by prison security on the occasion of New Year’s Eve.

The three men were identified as Wahm Blan, Mohammad Osman and Hamzeh Kweyder, all Syrian nationals.

In mid-August, five prisoners from Fath al-islam managed to escape the maximum-facility complex and security personnel in Roumieh were held responsible.

Roumieh prison witnessed several security incidents in 2011, including attempted escapes, riots and hunger strikes by prisoners.