At least 19 people have been killed and more than 100 others wounded in clashes at a prison in Negombo, about 35 kilometers north of the capital Colombo, according to a medical official and local media. The violence erupted on Sunday and continued into Monday.

Negombo hospital director Pushpa Gamlath told AFP that the hospital received the bodies of four prison guards and 15 inmates. She added that more than 100 wounded inmates were also admitted.

Local television station Hiru reported that at least 20 people were killed in the fighting. Police spokesman Chandana Herath confirmed the clash and deaths but provided no further details.

The cause of the clashes remains unclear. Authorities are expected to release more information as the situation develops.

Source: www.aljazeera.com