Guayaquil, Ecuador—A violent riot occurred in a major detention facility early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of three inmates. The upheaval began during the morning roll call when rival groups began attacking one another. Security forces responded immediately to contain the violence.

The prison agency stated that the facility is now back under control. They confirmed that the three fatalities occurred during the internal struggle between inmates. Several other prisoners sustained injuries and were moved to the facility's medical wing for treatment.

Initial reports indicate that the riot was sparked by a dispute over leadership within the cell blocks. The facility has been a flashpoint for gang-related conflicts for several months. Guards discovered several improvised weapons during a sweep conducted shortly after the situation stabilized.

Family members of the inmates gathered outside the prison entrance throughout the day, demanding information about their loved ones. Security officers maintained a heavy perimeter to prevent any further escalation or breaches of the facility. The atmosphere remains tense.

The government has launched a formal investigation into how the riot was organized. They are also reviewing the current security protocols to ensure such events do not happen again. This latest incident highlights the ongoing challenges in managing the country's prison population.

Regional authorities have placed all surrounding detention centers on high alert. They are concerned that the violence could spread if leadership struggles continue to manifest within the walls. Additional patrols have been assigned to the surrounding area.

The deceased have been identified, and their families are being notified through official channels. The authorities plan to transfer the primary instigators to a higher-security facility in the coming days. The prison remains in lockdown while the investigation continues.

Operations within the jail are slowly returning to normal, though visiting hours have been suspended indefinitely. The authorities expect to provide a full report on the riot's origins by the end of the week. No further deaths have been reported.