The United National Party has requested urgent protective measures for its Senior Vice Chairman Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, who is being held at Magazine Prison following recent violence within the facility.
The United National Party has formally appealed to prison authorities for heightened security measures surrounding its Senior Vice Chairman, Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, who remains in custody at Magazine Prison. According to UNP General Secretary Thalatha Atukorale, the party is concerned about the former minister's safety given recent disturbances at the facility. Kariyawasam is currently remanded in custody until August 18, 2026.
The security concerns emerged following unrest at Magazine Prison on Thursday night, during which one inmate was killed. Atukorale emphasized that prison authorities bear responsibility for ensuring the safety of all detainees, including Kariyawasam, while they remain in state custody.
In response to the situation, the UNP has requested an urgent meeting between party Chairman Wajira Abeywardana and senior prison officials to address the security situation directly. Kariyawasam, a former minister, was arrested on corruption charges related to allegations that he caused financial losses to the state during his previous role as Senior Presidential Adviser.
