Sri Lanka, Aug. 1 -- A tense situation erupted outside the Mahara Prison premises, where a confrontation broke out between security forces and relatives of inmates gathered nearby.

Sounds resembling gunfire were heard from inside the facility, prompting relatives visiting to check on inmates to try and push through security barricades.

Security personnel attempted to control the crowd, leading to a heated exchange between both sides.

Security forces brought water cannons to the area outside the prison to disperse the gathering and restore order if necessary.

One inmate died, and six others sustained injuries before being admitted to the Ragama Teaching Hospital as a result of the sudden unrest and a fire inside a prison building.

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