STORY: The attacks overnight and early on Tuesday morning, which included nine explosions, were an open declaration of war by gangs, Lasso said in a video address. Seven prison officers were also taken hostage by inmates in protest of prisoner transfers, but released after negotiations, according to prisons agency SNAI.

“These sabotage and terrorism acts are, as we can say, a declaration of war against the rule of law, the government and against all of you, the citizens. We will not allow it. I am here and I have decided to act firmly within the law,” Lasso said.