Fighting at a prison in northern Brazil has left 15 inmates dead, according to local officials.

Axar.az reports citing BBC.

The clashes reportedly broke out on Sunday during visiting hours at Anísio Jobim Penitentiary Complex, in Manaus.

Some of the victims were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes in front of visitors, whilst others were strangled to death.

Officials say the violence has been contained and an investigation has begun into the cause of the struggle.

"It was total chaos," the mother of an inmate - who did not wish to be named - told the Rio Times.

"Everyone started to run, and everyone was pounding on the cell gates, at the doors, and running down the aisles".