Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has urged inmates not to be influenced by individuals with ulterior motives attempting to stir unrest inside prisons.
Issuing a special statement on the incidents reported at several prisons, the minister said the government was taking steps to address concerns raised by inmates, including delays in obtaining bail caused by delays in forensic reports.
Key actions announced by the minister include:
- Around 70 new staff members are being recruited and new equipment introduced this month to improve the efficiency of the Government Analyst’s Department and speed up the release of forensic reports.
- The Department is expected to issue around 7,500 to 9,000 reports per month going forward.
- Amendments will be submitted to the Cabinet to revise bail provisions relating to certain drug offences. Currently, when the quantity of drugs involved exceeds 10 grams, suspects must seek bail from the Court of Appeal, contributing to delays; the proposed amendment would allow such suspects to seek bail from the High Court instead.
- Measures will be taken to reduce prison overcrowding, improve facilities, and address delays faced by remand prisoners awaiting forensic reports.
The minister said overcrowding in prisons stems from inadequate facilities and assured that steps are being taken to improve conditions.
He also warned inmates that violent actions and the destruction of prison property would only harm themselves, urging them not to be manipulated by a small group of individuals pursuing their own interests.
“Do not destroy your own resources by engaging in unrest inside prisons. Support the steps being taken by the government,” the minister said.