Post by : Bianca
Haleem
In a tragic outbreak of violence at Negombo Prison in western Sri Lanka, 26 individuals, including seven prison guards, lost their lives, while more than 100 others sustained injuries over two tumultuous days.
This distressing incident unfolded in the coastal town situated north of Colombo, where violent confrontations erupted between two factions of prisoners, rapidly escalating into a broader conflict.
Initial Clashes Spark Violence
The unrest ignited on Sunday as two groups of inmates clashed within the prison walls. It was reported that during the chaos, inmates managed to obtain firearms from the guards.
The first day of riots saw two fatalities and numerous injuries. With escalating tension, groups of male prisoners and women from a nearby unit took to the rooftops, demanding release.
Continued Unrest on Monday
On Monday, the situation deteriorated when inmates attempted to breach the prison gates. Security forces were deployed, and multiple gunfire episodes were noted from within.
Authorities indicated that the conflict was instigated by a disagreement related to an inmate who reported a drug trafficking network operating inside.
Victims Under Medical Care
Currently, 23 prison officers and 54 inmates are receiving treatment following the disturbances. Several injured were rushed to Negombo Hospital, where some were confirmed to have gunshot injuries, while others sustained serious bruises. Additional patients were transferred to Colombo National Hospital for further assistance.
Collapse of Roof Heightens Concerns
Reports indicate a portion of the prison roof collapsed during the incident, injuring some of the involved women. Outside the facility, anxious relatives of the prisoners gathered, expressing their distress to BBC Sinhala about the lack of information regarding their loved ones’ fates.
Security Tightened Amid Investigation
Security teams are actively working to secure affected areas inside the prison, with military forces on standby to support police if needed. Prisons Commissioner media spokesman AC Gajanayake confirmed plans to transfer certain inmates to different facilities.
Minister of Justice and Prisons Harshana Nanayakkara has instructed an investigation into this harrowing incident to provide a detailed report.
One of Sri Lanka's Most Devastating Prison Uprisings
While unrest within Sri Lanka’s overcrowded prisons is not uncommon, officials have deemed this incident one of the deadliest in recent memory. A similar riot in December 2020 caused 11 fatalities and left 117 injured.
As of Sunday, Sri Lanka's prison system is reported to house 41,250 inmates, nearly four times its intended capacity.
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