The Negombo Chief Magistrate's Court has directed 20 individuals, including the prison's chief jailer, to participate in an identification parade as part of investigations into deaths that occurred during a July prison clash.
The Negombo Chief Magistrate's Court has issued notices requiring 20 people to appear for an identification parade in connection with a deadly incident at Negombo Prison. Those summoned include the chief jailer and several prison officers. The group has been ordered to appear before Chief Magistrate Shilani Perera on September 8 for the proceedings.
The identification parade relates to disturbances that erupted at the facility on July 5 and 6, resulting in 32 deaths—comprising 10 prison officers and 22 inmates. More than 100 others sustained injuries during the violence. The Criminal Investigation Department has identified 70 suspects in total in connection with the incident.
During Friday's court hearing, the CID attempted to present six initial suspects for identification. However, two were unavailable due to health issues and conflicting court commitments. Four suspects and four witnesses were ultimately produced before the court, with witnesses successfully identifying the suspects during the parade, according to CID reports.
The investigation has progressed significantly, with statements collected from over 2,100 individuals thus far. Authorities indicated that additional statements remain pending as the inquiry continues. The court process is expected to advance following the September 8 identification parade, as authorities work to establish responsibility for the prison violence.
