Fatal clashes at Sri Lanka prison

At least 27 people have been killed during clashes between inmates and guards at a prison in the Sri Lankan capital, authorities say.

The violence began when police commandos attempted to conduct a search in Colombo's Welikada prison.

Some inmates took to the roof and were seen waving guns, while others hurled objects at security forces below.

Prison authorities say the situation is now under control but a search for escaped prisoners is under way.

Charles Haviland reports from Colombo.