Deadly Riots in Ecuador Prison Leaves More Than 30 Inmates Dead, 27 by Asphyxiation

Officers secure the Machala Detention Center in Ecuador, where recent clashes between rival gangs left dozens of inmates dead. (Credit: Via Getty Images)

Violence inside Ecuador's prisons continues to spiral out of control. In recent days, two clashes between rival gangs left at least 31 inmates dead, including 27 who authorities said were killed by asphyxiation, and 30 others injured.

The violence broke out at the Machala Detention Center, a prison in southwest Ecuador. Interior Minister John Reimberg said the criminal group Los Lobos was targeted by a breakaway faction known as Sao-Box. During the first clash on Nov. 9, at least four inmates were killed and 36 others were injured.