A clash between inmate groups at Negombo Prison on July 5th resulted in at least 32 deaths and extensive property damage exceeding Rs.100 million, with similar unrest spreading to three other correctional facilities across the country.
An outbreak of violence at Negombo Prison on July 5th has left significant destruction in its wake, with the Department of Prisons estimating property damage at over Rs.100 million. The clash between rival inmate groups resulted in 32 deaths and injured more than 100 people, in addition to destroying inmate registration records. The facility, which typically holds approximately 2,400 inmates, currently houses just over 600 detainees as investigations continue.
The disruption has extended to the prison's judicial operations. Some court proceedings involving Negombo Prison inmates are now being conducted remotely, while others continue with physical court appearances. The Department of Prisons stated that investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
The violence at Negombo was not an isolated incident. Similar unrest spread to three other correctional facilities in the following days. New Magazine Prison experienced disturbances on the night of July 6th, while Kuruwita Prison and Pallansena correctional and rehabilitation facility saw unrest on July 7th. These incidents resulted in three additional deaths and approximately 77 injuries across the three facilities. According to Police Spokesperson ASP F.U. Wootler, a report on investigations into the inmates involved in these secondary incidents was expected to be submitted on the day of reporting. Post-mortem examinations for the two inmates who died at Kuruwita Prison were scheduled to be conducted following the report's submission.
