A locking mechanism adapted to be placed in locked and unlocked positions. The locking mechanism includes a lock-bolt mounted for movement between locked and unlocked positions and a first engagement element having disengaged and engageable positions. An electric actuator having a movable output drives the first engagement element to the engageable position. A manually operated second engagement element can be engaged with the first engagement element in its engageable position. A lock-bolt drive mechanism is operatively coupled between the lock-bolt and the first engagement element. A slidable element responds to a movement of the manually operated second engagement element and slides linearly between engaged and disengaged positions. The slidable element cooperates with the lock-bolt drive mechanism to enable manual movement of the lock-bolt between the locked and unlocked positions thereof such that the disengaged position of the slidable element corresponds to the locked position of the lock-bolt.