The three deceased inmates were behind bars for violating laws regarding the possession of weapons and illegal substances. | Photo: RNN Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo, January 17 (RHC)-- Dominican Republic prison authorities have confirmed that at least three inmates died and nine others were injured after a brawl occurred Sunday at the La Victoria prison in Santo Domingo.

There were injuries caused by bladed weapons and firearms, of which six had to be transferred to hospitals in the city and three others were treated in the same prison.  The authorities detailed that the altercation was between two groups of prisoners, where they intervened as soon as possible and at the same time, they quickly contacted the Public Prosecutor's Office of the capital city to report the incident and advance the investigations.

Local media detailed that the three deceased were between 30 and 35 years of age and were behind bars for possession of weapons and for violating the laws on drugs and controlled substances.

Law enforcement officers at the penitentiary unit told local media that they continue working, applying the protocols established in cases like this, to reestablish order in the facility.  Local media report that the altercation took place in the areas of patio one and two of the penitentiary, which has a capacity for more than 8,000 inmates and currently houses about 7,200.