Deadly Clashes Rock Negombo Prison
At least 26 people lost their lives and more than 100 others suffered injuries after violent riots broke out at Negombo Prison in western Sri Lanka. The unrest lasted for two days and became one of the deadliest prison incidents the country has witnessed in recent years.
Officials confirmed that seven prison guards were among those killed. The remaining victims were inmates. Authorities continue to assess the damage as security forces restore order inside the prison.
Violence Started After Inmate Dispute
The disturbance reportedly began when two groups of prisoners clashed inside the prison. Initial reports suggest that the conflict was linked to accusations that one inmate had informed authorities about a drug trafficking operation taking place inside the facility.
As tensions grew, several inmates allegedly seized firearms from prison guards. The first day of violence claimed two lives and left dozens injured.
Prisoners Attempted to Escape
On the following day, the situation became even more dangerous. Groups of male prisoners, along with women from a nearby prison unit, climbed onto rooftops and demanded their release.
Later, several inmates attempted to force their way through the prison gates. Security personnel responded quickly and fired multiple rounds to stop the escape attempt. The confrontation resulted in more casualties and injuries.
During the unrest, part of the prison roof collapsed, causing additional injuries to several female inmates.
More Than 100 People Injured
Health officials confirmed that more than 100 people were hurt during the riots. Among those receiving medical treatment are 23 prison officers and 54 inmates.
Doctors reported that several victims suffered gunshot wounds, while others sustained cuts, bruises, and other serious injuries. Medical teams transferred many of the wounded to hospitals in Negombo and Colombo for further treatment.
Families Waited for News Outside
As the violence unfolded, large crowds of worried family members gathered outside the prison. Many searched for information about their relatives but struggled to receive updates from officials.
The uncertainty increased anxiety as authorities continued rescue operations and identified those affected by the riots.
Authorities Increase Security
Security forces secured the prison after bringing the situation under control. Officials also cleared damaged sections of the facility while keeping the military on standby to prevent further violence.
Prison authorities have started transferring inmates to other prisons to reduce tension and improve safety inside Negombo Prison.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Justice and Prisons Minister, Harshana Nanayakkara, ordered a full investigation into the incident. Authorities will prepare a detailed report to determine the cause of the violence and identify those responsible.
Overcrowding Remains a Serious Concern
The latest riots have once again highlighted the severe overcrowding in Sri Lanka’s prison system. According to official figures, the country’s prisons currently house around 41,250 inmates, nearly four times their intended capacity.
Experts believe overcrowding continues to create dangerous conditions that increase the risk of violence and unrest inside correctional facilities.
