25 dead in Negombo prison clash with over 100 injured

Police report that 25 people, including prison officers, died following renewed unrest at the Negombo prison today (06).

Conflicts between two parties while attempting to control the situation left more than 100 others injured.

The Police Special Task Force entered the premises to restore order.

This volatile situation began on the morning of 5 July and appeared to be under control by that evening before escalating again today.

Inmates organised the disturbance this morning, forcing security forces to fire warning shots into the air to regain control.

During yesterday's protests, groups of male and female inmates climbed onto the roof, where a collapsing ceiling injured four prisoners who required hospitalisation.

Prison Media Spokesperson Commissioner C. Gajanayake confirmed that a special investigation team launched an inquiry into the incident.

The prison currently houses over 1,800 inmates.