India, July 6 -- The death toll from the violent clashes inside Sri Lanka's Negombo Prison has risen to 19, while 72 others have been injured, authorities said on Monday, as security forces continued efforts to restore order at the overcrowded correctional facility.

The violence first erupted on Sunday when rival groups of inmates clashed inside the prison. The unrest flared up again on Monday after some prisoners reportedly seized firearms from the prison armoury, escalating tensions and prompting a major security response.

According to Negombo Hospital Director Pushpa Gamlath, the casualties include inmates injured during the clashes and the subsequent disturbances. Several of the injured are undergoing treatment, while authorities co...