Two Inmates Killed as Prison Unrest Spreads from Magazine Prison to Kuruwita
A wave of unrest has struck Sri Lanka’s prison system, with two inmates killed and 11 others injured during a deadly disturbance at Kuruwita Prison, less than 24 hours after authorities brought a separate incident under control at Colombo Magazine Prison.
The back-to-back incidents have prompted prison authorities to tighten security while investigations into both disturbances continue.
Magazine Prison Disturbance Linked to Alleged Narcotics Parcel
The first incident began on Thursday night at Colombo Magazine Prison, where tensions reportedly erupted between inmates from two prison wards.
According to information emerging from the investigation, the confrontation may have been triggered by an attempt to obtain a parcel of narcotics allegedly thrown into the prison premises.
The Department of Prisons said approximately 50 inmates engaged in disorderly behaviour near one of the prison gates during the incident.
Inmates also caused extensive damage to prison property.
Prison Property Damaged, Eleven Injured
Acting Commissioner General of Prisons Hemantha Prasad stated that several computers and other equipment were damaged during the unrest.
A total of 11 inmates sustained injuries and were admitted to the prison hospital for treatment.
As the situation escalated, officers from the Sri Lanka Police, Police Riot Control Unit, and the Special Task Force (STF) were deployed to restore order inside the prison.
By Friday morning, prison authorities confirmed that the situation at Magazine Prison had been brought under control.
Following the disturbance, nine inmates were transferred to Boossa Prison, while Police and STF personnel continue to maintain heightened security outside the facility.
Kuruwita Prison Unrest Turns Deadly
Only hours after calm was restored at Magazine Prison, another disturbance broke out at Kuruwita Prison on Friday morning.
The incident turned fatal, with two inmates losing their lives during the unrest.
Police confirmed that 11 injured inmates were admitted to Ratnapura Hospital for medical treatment.
Security Tightened as Investigations Continue
In response to the latest violence, authorities have strengthened security around Kuruwita Prison by deploying additional Police and Special Task Force (STF) personnel outside the prison premises.
Investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding both prison disturbances, including the alleged role of narcotics and other factors that may have contributed to the unrest.
The incidents have renewed concerns over prison security, inmate safety, and the continued efforts to curb the flow of illegal drugs into Sri Lanka’s correctional facilities.
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