Sri Lankan police suspect that a disagreement related to drug trafficking between two inmates sparked the recent riot at Mahara Prison, where inmates set fires and damaged property over the weekend.
Investigations into the unrest at Mahara Prison have led police to suspect that a dispute involving alleged drug trafficking operations triggered the disturbance. Two inmates identified by nicknames "Patta" and "Satan", both facing drug-related charges, are suspected of instigating the incident, according to the police investigation. Authorities have also identified two additional inmates believed to be involved in sparking the unrest.
The incident began on Saturday evening when approximately four inmates climbed onto the prison roof without apparent justification. When prison officials attempted to bring them down safely, other inmates became agitated and began acting aggressively, reportedly attempting to break through the main gate. As the situation escalated, prison authorities requested assistance from police and the Special Task Force. Throughout the night, inmates set multiple fires, including one in the prison kitchen after midnight, and engaged in vandalism by striking walls and using stones and debris from damaged structures to attack security personnel.
Police believe the destructive actions may have followed a pre-planned strategy. Inmates also reportedly attacked several houses near the prison during the unrest. The Department of Prisons has appointed a three-member committee to investigate the incident, while police and the Special Task Force remain deployed outside the premises. To date, statements have been recorded from approximately 25 individuals, including injured inmates. Acting Commissioner General Prasad Hemantha noted that security measures implemented following the previous Negombo Prison incident, which involved storing firearms and supplies outside the prison, successfully prevented weapons from reaching inmates during the Mahara disturbance.
