In Honduras, an attempted prison break resulted in the deaths of two inmates and injuries to three others. The incident occurred at a men’s prison in Tamara, located approximately 19 miles from the capital city of Tegucigalpa. Authorities reported that 72 prisoners were involved in the escape attempt, though details on how the casualties occurred were not immediately clear.

Military police were called in to address the situation, with Colonel Ramiro Muñoz, the force’s commander, confirming the deaths of two inmates. One prisoner passed away at the prison, while the other succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Colonel Muñoz assured the public that the situation was under control and emphasized that such events are not unique to Honduras.

The inmates reportedly barricaded themselves in a section of the prison around 4 a.m. in an attempt to distract guards, prompting a response from military police. Colonel Muñoz stated that a forensic investigation would be conducted to provide clarity on the incident.

Honduras has grappled with issues of gang violence and prison overcrowding for years. A riot at the women’s prison in Tamara in the previous year resulted in the deaths of 46 women, sparking discussions about reforming the country’s prison system. In response to the ongoing challenges, President Xiomara Castro announced plans for a new 20,000-capacity “megaprison” as part of broader efforts to combat gang violence and revamp the prison system.