Opposition demands full transparency in Negombo Prison riot probe

The Democratic United Opposition has called for complete transparency and accountability in investigating the Negombo Prison riot of July 5–6, which left 33 people dead, including 23 inmates and 10 prison officials. In a special statement issued today (03), the group described the incident as one of the most terrifying in Sri Lanka’s prison history, saying the sequence of events had “shaken the conscience of the entire nation.” While welcoming the appointment of an inquiry committee chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge, the group stressed that impartiality and honesty were essential. The statement highlighted several concerns:

Failure to separate prisoners and officials after initial clashes on July 5, despite the situation being under control by evening. Provocative actions on July 6 morning, when prison officials were sent among inmates during breakfast, sparking further violence and “inhumane killings.” Use of automatic gunfire by a prison guard, which the group said must be examined for justification. Police and STF inaction, with a Deputy Inspector General confirming officers received no instructions to intervene despite being stationed outside. Negligence in prisoner transfers to Welikada, Angunakolapelessa, and Boossa, where inmates were allegedly assaulted, with further deaths reported during transport and custody.

The Democratic United Opposition noted that prisoner deaths under state custody violate Article 11 of the Constitution and international conventions including the ICCPR and the Nelson Mandela Rules. It criticized the Justice Minister’s absence during the crisis and condemned the denial of entry to Human Rights Commission officials at Welikada Prison, calling it a violation of the Human Rights Commission Act. The Opposition also blamed administrative failures, pointing to the lack of a permanent Commissioner General of Prisons for over a year and the Ministry’s refusal to reinstate suspended official Thushara Upuldeniya despite a binding Human Rights Commission order. The statement underscored wider systemic issues, including severe overcrowding, with prisons holding nearly four times their capacity and three‑quarters of inmates unconvicted, and staff shortages that leave prison officers under extreme pressure. “In this grave tragedy, full transparency and honesty are essential. We stand firmly against any attempt to conceal or suppress the truth,” the group added. (Newswire)