Mexico prison: Cieneguillas riot leaves at least 16 dead

Mexico prison: Cieneguillas riot leaves at least 16 dead

(FASTNEWS | Mexico City) – At least 16 inmates have been killed after a riot broke out at a prison in central Mexico, authorities say.

Five others were wounded in clashes at the prison facility in the town of Cieneguillas, Zacatecas state.

During the riot, which lasted for about two-and-a-half hours, officials say prisoners fought each other using handguns and knives.

Violence is often reported at Mexico’s prisons, many of which are overcrowded and dominated by drug gangs.

The state security agency said the fight broke out at Cieneguillas’ Regional Center for Social Reintegration at about 14:30 (20:30 GMT) on Tuesday and was under control by 17:00.

One prisoner was arrested with a gun still in his possession, and three other handguns and knives were later found inside the prison.

(Agencies)