The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Marc-André Franche, has expressed deep sorrow following the deadly violence at the Negombo Prison, which resulted in the deaths of at least 27 individuals and left more than 100 others injured.

Issuing a statement, the United Nations extended its condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche noted that prison officials carry out challenging duties in service of the State and the general public, saying their loss was deeply felt. The UN also stressed that inmates who died or were injured were under the care and protection of the State, emphasizing that both correctional officers and prisoners require greater protection.

“Ensuring that protection is a fundamental responsibility of the State,” the UN stated.

The United Nations in its statement said the incident highlights the urgent need for continued investment and reform within Sri Lanka’s prison system. It pointed to longstanding challenges, including overcrowding, outdated practices and poor conditions in detention facilities, which remain concerns in prison systems both in Sri Lanka and globally.

The UN said Sri Lanka’s engagement with international human rights standards relating to the treatment, safety and wellbeing of persons deprived of liberty provides an important framework for addressing these issues.

Meanwhile, the United Nations welcomed the establishment of an independent committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the prison violence and emphasized that the committee’s findings should lead to concrete and lasting improvements in detention conditions.

The UN also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through technical cooperation aimed at improving prison security, strengthening detention conditions, and supporting the welfare of correctional personnel.