At least 25 people died and nearly 100 sustained injuries in a violent clash between two groups of inmates at the overcrowded Negombo prison in Sri Lanka on Monday.
Victims included both prisoners and prison officials, according to local reports.
The clashes began on Sunday between convicted inmates and detainees. On Monday, rioting prisoners seized firearms from prison guards, escalating the violence. Visuals showed injured inmates sprawled inside a police bus as heavy security forces surrounded the prison gates.
The facility, located 35 km north of Colombo, remains under tight security. The Special Task Force has been deployed to prevent further unrest, while three inmates involved in the violence were transferred to Pallansena Prison Camp.
Army spokesman Brigadier Waruna Gamage confirmed that the military stands ready to support police operations if required. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the clashes, with initial reports suggesting rival groups linked to drug trafficking activities inside the prison.
Prisons Department spokesperson AC Gajanayaka said a special investigation team has been formed under the Commissioner General of Prisons. Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara requested a detailed report on the incident.
The deadly confrontation highlights the challenges of overcrowding and internal rivalries within Sri Lanka’s prison system. Authorities continue to clear affected areas and count casualties as the nation grapples with one of its worst prison riots in recent years.
