Guatemala prison riot prompts drugs rethink

12 March 2013 Last updated at 21:24 ET

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Humphrey Hawksley visits Pavoncito Prison in Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the most violent countries in Latin America, with thousands of drug-related killings each year. The BBC's Humphrey Hawksley reports on the authorities' new approach to fighting the drugs trade, which may include legalising the growing and transport of hard drugs.

Three layers of electric fencing and razor wire separate Pavoncito prison near Guatemala City from its isolated perimeter road that is constantly monitored by armed foot patrols.

The prison's maximum security wings house leaders of gangs funded by international drug money. It has a bloody record of violence.

In 2008, a fight between rival gangs left seven prisoners dead, five of them beheaded. Pavoncito became a battlefield between inmates who supported the prison authorities and the gangs who had taken control of large parts of it. The gangs resorted to cannibalism after food supplies ran out, according to inmates.

"For four months, the authorities could not come past this line," explains one inmate, pointing to prison cells and an area of open land, where prisoners are now playing football.

The gangs' hold was finally broken in a pitched gun battle with prison guards and police, with small firearms and grenades.

The wing has now been transformed beyond recognition.

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Guatemala prison riot prompts drugs rethink