BREAKING: Prisoners threaten to ignite gas cylinder, gasoline in standoff with security forces

Last Updated on Friday, 4 March 2016, 8:49 by Denis Chabrol

The situation at the Georgetown Prison deteriorated Friday morning, with inmates threatening to light a cooking gas cylinder and a tank containing gasoline.

Fire was set to another section, causing fire fighters to go into action even as efforts were being made to get the inmates back in their cells.

The prisoners not only stoned prison wardens and police but also hurled back tear gas canisters at police who are trying desperately to bring the situation under control.

A Demerara Waves Online News reporter heard six gunshots fired inside the prison.

The prisoners earlier Friday morning used large pieces of wood described as “two by four” to break other sections of the prison.

A southern wall was also kicked open in what is widely regarded as the worst prison riot in Guyana’s history.

Fire fighters, soldiers and riot squad police have been deployed in and around the prison.

Sixteen prisoners were killed and five others injured when inmates set fire to a section of the Georgetown Prison.