According to authorities, the Cantel jail in the city of Quetzaltenango houses at least 2,252 people. | Photo: FILE foto / Prensa Libre​

Guatemala City, May 20 (RHC)-- The National Civil Police (PNC) of Guatemala registered on Wednesday the death of at least 14 prisoners after a riot in the Cantel prison, located in the city of Quetzaltenango.

According to preliminary reports, in addition to the 14 killed, at least ten hostages are reported with serious injuries.  Apparently, the incident occurred after an official visit of the authorities to the penitentiary center.

The spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Pablo Castillo, said that support is being coordinated in the area between the PNC and authorities of the Public Prosecutor's Office inside the prison.

Local media in Guatemala reported that despite the transfer of the Departmental Municipal Fire Department and volunteers to the scene, they have had no contact with the deceased inmates or the injured.

According to authorities, the Cantel jail in the city of Quetzaltenango houses at least 2,252 prisoners.