'Dozens killed in Mexican prison riot'

Dozens of people have been killed in a riot in a prison in northeastern Mexico, local media is reporting, just days ahead of a planned visit by Pope Francis to another prison near in Mexico's far north.

Reuters could not immediately reach security officials in the northern state of Nuevo Leon, where the Topo Chico prison is located.

The riot started before dawn on Thursday, local media said.

Milenio TV said at least 50 people had been killed, adding some prisoners may have escaped.