Negombo Prison declared crime scene after unrest – Justice Ministry

The Ministry of Justice has announced that following the emergency situation at Negombo Prison on July 5 and 6, 2026, the premises have been severely damaged and designated a crime scene, making it unsuitable to house inmates. Issuing a statement, the ministry said that to facilitate investigations, ensure inmate safety, and begin rehabilitation work at the facility once inquiries are complete, the majority of prisoners have been temporarily transferred to other prison facilities. The ministry further noted that overcrowding in existing prisons and concerns for inmate welfare have created the need to accommodate some prisoners in additional suitable premises. Accordingly, until rehabilitation of Negombo Prison is completed, regulations have been issued to temporarily establish the Mahara and Old Bogambara premises as prisons under the functions of the Prisons Ordinance, the ministry added. (Newswire)