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Firing in Madras jail to quell rioting

The police opened fire in the central jail in Madras killing a prisoner as rioting broke out following the death of a prisoner in the general hospital early today.

The police said at least 11 jail officials were injured in the riot.

The trouble broke out following the death of the prisoner, Boxer Vadivelu, detained under the Goondas Act, in the general hospital early today.

Police reinforcements have been rushed to the central jail to control the riot which was still continuing.

The police said a senior jail official was reported missing and it was feared that he might have been killed by the mob.

Vadivelu, a rowdy-sheeter, fell sick last night and was admitted to the hospital, where he died.

As the news spread, his supporters in the prison indulged in rioting and attacked the security staff with stones. Seven warders, two deputy warders and two armed reserve constables were seriously injured, the police added.

The police then opened fire killing a prisoner. The number of the injured in the firing was not immediately known.

UNI

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