January 20, LNW (Colombo): Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara told Parliament today that approximately 700 individuals are arrested each day across the country in connection with drug-related offences, highlighting the scale of Sri Lanka’s ongoing narcotics problem.
Responding to a question raised by MP Chamindrani Kiriella, the Minister said the high number of arrests has significantly contributed to severe overcrowding in the prison system. He revealed that prisons islandwide are currently overcrowded by nearly 300 percent, placing immense pressure on infrastructure, staff, and rehabilitation facilities.
Minister Nanayakkara also indicated that the government is considering the establishment of a bail fund to facilitate the release of thousands of inmates who remain in custody solely due to their inability to pay bail. He noted that a large proportion of remand prisoners are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and are detained for minor or non-violent offences.
The Justice Minister stressed that prolonged detention over unpaid bail not only worsens prison congestion but also raises concerns over fairness and access to justice. He said the proposed bail fund, along with broader judicial reforms, is being studied as part of efforts to reduce unnecessary incarceration and improve the efficiency of the legal system.
The Minister further emphasized the need for stronger rehabilitation and prevention programmes to address drug abuse, warning that enforcement alone would not resolve the crisis unless accompanied by social and economic interventions.
