Brazilian prisoners riot, 25 dead.

At least 25 prisoners were killed, many beheaded, after clashes in an overcrowded prison in northern Brazil.

At least 25 prisoners were killed in a prison riot in northern Brazil - Photo: SAMAA.TV

Local media reported that clashes occurred between two rival gangs inside a prison in Boa Vista, the capital of Roraima state, on October 16.

A police official said the clashes occurred during visiting hours and about 100 visitors were taken hostage. Witnesses said the prisoners were carrying knives and wooden sticks.

Special forces police then stormed in to quell the riot and rescue the hostages.

State authorities said they were awaiting the results of a new prisoner count before they could confirm the total number of deaths, but initial reports indicated at least 25 fatalities, including seven who were beheaded and six who were burned to death.

Reports indicate that at the time of the riot, the prison was holding 1,400 inmates, while it was designed to accommodate only 740.

According to TTO