A violent clash between rival inmate groups at Negombo prison in Sri Lanka resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including seven prison guards, authorities confirmed Tuesday. The incident occurred overnight, with more than 100 individuals sustaining injuries ranging from cuts to gunshot wounds.

The conflict involved inmates affiliated with two competing drug gangs housed within the facility. Police reported that the wounded were transported to Negombo Hospital, located north of the capital Colombo, for medical treatment.

Officials have indicated that efforts are underway to separate the hostile groups within the prison to prevent further violence. A government minister overseeing the corrections system emphasized the importance of restoring order in the facility while investigating the factors that contributed to the outbreak of fighting.

The unrest adds to concerns over security and management inside Sri Lanka's overcrowded prison system, where rival criminal factions often vie for control. Authorities have yet to release detailed information on how the confrontation began or whether any weapons were confiscated during the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.