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Violence broke out between rival groups of inmates at Negombo Prison, with authorities alleging the unrest may have been linked to drug trafficking activities inside the jail.
Image outside the Negombo Prison in Sri Lanka (Credits: X)
The death toll from the violent clashes inside Negombo Prison in Sri Lanka has risen to 19, while 72 others have been injured, officials said on Monday, as authorities continued efforts to regain full control of the correctional facility.
The violence began on Sunday when rival groups of inmates clashed inside the overcrowded prison, and some inmates allegedly seized firearms from the prison armoury,. The situation deteriorated further the following day after some prisoners allegedly gained access to firearms from the prison armoury, intensifying the unrest and triggering a large-scale security response.
Hospital Treating Dozens Of Injured
According to Negombo Hospital Director Pushpa Gamlath, those injured include inmates hurt during the initial clashes as well as the subsequent violence inside the prison.
Several of the injured remain under medical treatment, while officials continue to assess the full impact of the incident.
Probe Focuses On Alleged Drug Trafficking Dispute
Preliminary findings indicate the violence may have stemmed from a confrontation between a group of inmates allegedly involved in drug trafficking inside the prison and another faction opposed to those activities.
Authorities are also investigating whether organised criminal networks operating within the prison played a role in triggering or escalating the clashes.
Security Forces Deployed To Restore Order
Following the escalation, Sri Lankan authorities deployed the Police Special Task Force (STF) along with riot control units to bring the situation under control.
As part of the immediate measures to prevent further violence, three inmates were transferred to the Pallansena Prison Camp.
Multiple Investigations Underway
Prisons Department Media Spokesman AC Gajanayake said a special investigation team has been constituted on the instructions of the Commissioner General of Prisons to examine the incident in detail, according to a report by The Poineer.
A separate police investigation is also underway to establish responsibility and identify those involved in the violence.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has sought a detailed report on the incident, while a magisterial inquiry has also been initiated into the deadly prison clashes.
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