Deadly Prison Riots in Sri Lanka: 25 Killed, Over 100 Injured in Negombo
Deadly Prison Riots in Sri Lanka: 25 Killed, Over 100 Injured in Negombo
Shocking violence rocks Negombo prison! A clash over alleged drug trafficking leaves 25 dead and over 100 injured. Find out how authorities are responding to the chaos.
A brutal clash within the walls of Sri Lanka’s Negombo prison has resulted in a staggering death toll of 25 inmates, with over 100 others sustaining injuries. The violent unrest, which first erupted on Sunday (July 5, 2026) and escalated into Monday (July 6, 2026), has prompted a massive security response and multiple investigations.
Preliminary findings suggest the violence stemmed from a deep-seated conflict between two factions of inmates: one allegedly involved in drug trafficking activities within the prison and another group vehemently opposed to such illicit operations. The situation reportedly intensified dramatically when rioting inmates managed to seize prison guns, leading to further chaos and fatalities.
Authorities swiftly moved to contain the crisis. The Police Special Task Force (STF) and riot control units were deployed to the Negombo facility to restore order and prevent any further escalation. In the immediate aftermath, three inmates were transferred to the Pallansena Prison Camp on Monday as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure the safety of other prisoners.
The incident has triggered widespread concern and immediate action from government bodies. Prisons Department Media Spokesman A.C. Gajanayake confirmed that a special investigation has been launched. A dedicated team, appointed on the instructions of the Commissioner General of Prisons, is now conducting a comprehensive inquiry into the root causes and specific circumstances that led to the unrest. In parallel, a separate police investigation is also underway to examine the events.
Adding to the official response, Minister of Justice, Attorney-at-Law Harshana Nanayakkara, has publicly called for a detailed report on the clashes. A magisterial inquiry into the incident was already conducted on Sunday, highlighting the gravity and urgency with which the authorities are addressing this tragic event. The community awaits further details as investigations continue into one of the deadliest prison incidents in recent memory.
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