Nov 10, Kathmandu - At least 31 prisoners were killed in a violent prison riot in the southwestern city of Machala on Sunday. Officials said four people died in armed clashes in the morning, and another 27 died of respiratory problems in the afternoon.

The prison administration SNAI, in a statement, said that those found dead inside Machala Prison “died instantly due to respiratory arrest during a struggle.” A forensic team is still working at the scene to clarify the cause and details of the incident.

Local residents heard gunshots, explosions and cries for help from inside the prison. The violence, which began around 3am (0800 GMT), spiraled out of control within hours.

According to SNAI, four people were killed and 33 prisoners and a police officer were injured in the initial clashes. A special police team then quickly entered the prison and restored control, it said.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the dead. The incident is believed to be the result of a feud between rival drug trafficking gangs.

Ecuador's prisons have become a major hub for drug trafficking gangs in recent years, with violent clashes between them over control of the illegal trade. More than 500 prisoners have died in riots since 2021.

The government is preparing to open a new maximum security prison in another province this month. Officials believe the latest violence may be linked to this relocation plan.

In another clash at Machala Prison last September, 13 prisoners and a prison officer were killed. The current incident is the latest in a series of tragic incidents.