July 06, Colombo (LNW): A special investigation has been launched into the violent disturbance that erupted at Negombo Prison on Saturday, after the Commissioner General of Prisons appointed a dedicated inquiry team to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, according to the Prisons Department.
The unrest claimed the lives of two inmates, while approximately 35 others sustained injuries and were taken to Negombo General Hospital for medical treatment. Authorities said the confrontation involved rival groups of prisoners and rapidly escalated within the prison complex.
Preliminary police investigations indicate that the violence may have been sparked by tensions linked to the exposure of an alleged drug trafficking network operating inside the prison. Investigators are also examining claims that a suspected drug trafficker, identified as Suresh and believed to have connections to the underworld figure known as “Booru Moona”, played a central role in instigating the clash.
The disturbance also prompted protests by inmates. A group of female prisoners climbed onto the roof of one of the prison buildings in protest, with male inmates later staging a separate rooftop demonstration.
During the protest, a section of the roof gave way, causing four inmates to fall and suffer injuries. They were subsequently admitted to Negombo General Hospital, where they continue to receive treatment.
Outside the prison, anxious relatives gathered demanding information about the welfare of those being held inside, accusing officials of failing to communicate developments promptly. In response, police later arranged for a number of family members to visit injured inmates receiving treatment at the hospital.
To regain control of the situation, police officers from Negombo and neighbouring police divisions, supported by the Police Special Task Force (STF) and riot control personnel, were deployed to the prison.