July 12, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Prisons has clarified that the Rs. 500,000 granted to the families of prison officers killed during the recent violence at Negombo Prison was intended as an interim financial payment rather than the final compensation package.
Addressing public concern over the amount, Prisons Commissioner and Department spokesperson A.C. Gajanayake said officials are reviewing proposals to increase the overall compensation to more than Rs. 2 million for each bereaved family. He noted that the enhanced package is currently under consideration and is expected to provide greater financial support to those affected by the tragedy.
Speaking in response to media queries, Commissioner Gajanayake also confirmed that the Department of Prisons met the full cost of the funeral arrangements for the officers who lost their lives in the incident.
The department is also examining measures to provide financial assistance to prison officers who sustained injuries during the confrontation, recognising the impact the incident has had on those involved.
According to the Commissioner, seven injured officers remain in hospital. Of those, three are continuing to receive specialised treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Hospital in Colombo, while the remaining officers are recovering under medical supervision.