Sri Lankan authorities said Saturday they have called in the military to quash a riot in the country's largest prison that has left at least 27 people dead and 43 wounded.

The riot erupted Friday at Welikada prison in Colombo, the capital, when inmates confronted security personnel carrying out searches for drugs and contraband.

Prisoners were seen on the rooftop Friday, shooting at troops and police on the ground.

An army spokesman said six bodies were found Saturday during a search of the premises and a number of weapons were also recovered.

Officials say the situation at the prison has been brought under control.