Dozens are dead following a massive prison riot in south-western Venezuela.<br/> <br />Officials say the clashes happened on Friday when prisoners got wind there would be a weapons inspection.<br/> <br />Local media report that between 26 and 54 people died in the fierce fighting, while many more are wounded.<br/> <br />Worried relatives like this woman waited outside the facility for news of their family members.<br/> <br />On Saturday, Vice President Nicolas Maduro said the country is launching an investigation into the incident and gave his condolences to victims' families.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) NICOLAS MADURO, VENEZUELAN VICE-PRESIDENT, SAYING:<br/> <br />"We designed a plan (for the national guard to search the prison for contraband) as we've done in other prisons and we acted. The toll is unfortunate. There was a situation of tragic confusion that we lament."<br/> <br />South America is plagued with overcrowded prisons, according to critics.<br/> <br />The issue particularly serious in Venezuelan prisons, which are often controlled by armed gangs that have rioted repeatedly in recent years over disputes with jail authorities or prison leaders.
