Many deaths from fire police station Venezuela

valencia - A fire in a police station in Venezuela killed 68 people. That is what the authorities have announced. An investigation has started.

Dozens of detainees have probably died as a result of the inhalation of smoke in their cell, reports the BBC. Among the dead there may also be women and children who were visiting.

The incident took place in the city of Valencia, west of the capital Caracas. The fire started after prisoners had revolted and set fire to the mattresses. The police had to use tear gas to disperse relatives of the detainees who had gathered at the police station when news of the fire became known. An agent was shot in his leg in the tumult.

Prisons in the South American country are notorious for violent problems. They are often overcrowded.