A violent riot at Negombo Prison in Sri Lanka has resulted in 26 deaths, including seven guards, and over 100 injuries. The riot, which broke out on Sunday evening, is the deadliest prison incident in the country in years. The clash involved inmates from two rival drug gangs, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.
Immediate Response and Casualties
Victims with cuts, gunshot injuries, and severe bruises were rushed to Negombo Hospital, located north of the capital, Colombo. Hospital director Pushpa Gamlath confirmed 23 bodies were received at the state-run facility, along with more than 100 wounded inmates and guards. Eighteen of the most seriously injured were transferred to Colombo National Hospital.
Government and Official Statements
Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara expressed profound shock and grief over the incident. He announced that authorities are working to separate the rival gangs within the prison. Nanayakkara emphasized the human cost of the riot, stating, 'Human beings have died, and there is a deep shock regarding that. This is something that should never have occurred.'
Escalation and Security Measures
The riot began on Sunday evening and escalated on Monday morning when inmates attempted to break out during breakfast. Prison spokesman Chaminda Gajanayake reported that armed guards managed to hold back the escape attempt. Although armed police and commandos were deployed to guard the perimeter, they did not enter the prison.
Investigation and Relocation
The government has announced the formation of a three-member team, headed by a retired Supreme Court justice, to investigate the riot. Inmates are being relocated to other prisons for safety. Large crowds of relatives gathered outside Negombo Prison as the air force deployed drones and a helicopter to monitor the situation.
Background and Context
Sri Lanka's prisons are severely overcrowded, holding about four times their capacity. In December 2020, another prison riot killed 11 inmates and wounded 117 during the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting the government to release hundreds of inmates. The recent riot at Negombo Prison highlights the ongoing challenges within the prison system.
