At least 16 killed in central Mexico prison riot

At least 16 inmates in a central Mexico prison were killed and five more were wounded in a riot that closed out a violent 2019 for the country, authorities said.

The melee at the Cieneguillas State Prison broke out around 1430 local time (2030GMT) on Tuesday and the prison was brought under control by 1700 (2300GMT), according to a statement from the state security agency.

Fifteen of the victims died at the prison and one died later at a hospital.

Zacatecas state officials said authorities confiscated four guns that they believe were brought in to during prison visits on Tuesday.

The prison had been searched for weapons on Saturday and Sunday and no guns were found.

One prisoner was detained with a gun still in his possession and the other three were found inside the prison.

Officials said not all of the victims died from gunshot wounds; some were stabbed and others beaten with objects.

No guards or police were wounded.

Officials did not offer a possible motive, but prison riots frequently involve score-settling between rival cartel members or a battle for control of the institute's illicit business.