Violent Clashes in Sri Lankan Prison Result in 25 Deaths and Over 100 Injuries

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — Intense confrontations erupted within a correctional facility near Sri Lanka’s capital city on Sunday and Monday, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and over 100 wounded, according to official reports and media outlets.

Law enforcement authorities confirmed the escalation began in Negombo, located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Colombo. A police representative stated that deaths occurred but declined to verify the casualty figures disclosed by local broadcasting station Hiru.

The incident involved both detainees and correctional staff, as reported by the television network.

The specific trigger for the violence remained undisclosed at the time of reporting.

Health facility personnel at a nearby government hospital disclosed that over 100 individuals were admitted for treatment following the disturbances. The source spoke under anonymity due to institutional protocols prohibiting media communication and did not elaborate on the nature of the injuries sustained.

Sri Lanka’s correctional system faces severe overcrowding, housing more than 39,000 prisoners across facilities originally designed to accommodate only 10,000 inmates.

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