The People’s Joint Opposition has called for a fully impartial and comprehensive investigation into the deadly riot at the Negombo Prison on July 5 and 6, which resulted in the deaths of over 30 individuals, including prison officials.
In a statement, the group described the incident as one of the worst prison-related tragedies in the country’s history, stating that the circumstances surrounding the deaths require a thorough examination. It welcomed the appointment of an inquiry committee headed by a recently retired Supreme Court judge to investigate the events.
The statement raised several concerns over the handling of the unrest, including the failure to separate inmates and prison officers after violence first broke out on July 5, despite the situation reportedly coming under control later that day.
It questioned the decision to send prison officials among inmates on the morning of July 6, claiming the move escalated tensions and led to further violence.
The Joint Opposition also called for an investigation into the use of firearms by a prison security officer during the clashes, questioning whether the action was justified or whether alternative measures could have been used to control the situation.
The statement further questioned why police personnel, including the Special Task Force, who were reportedly on standby, did not intervene earlier and sought clarification on whether proper coordination took place between relevant authorities.
Concerns were also raised over the alleged mistreatment of inmates during transfers from Negombo Prison to Welikada, Agunukolapelessa and Boossa prisons. The group claimed several inmates suffered serious injuries during transportation and highlighted deaths that occurred after the transfers.
The People’s Joint Opposition said deaths of inmates while in state custody raised serious legal concerns under Sri Lanka’s Constitution and international human rights obligations. It also criticised the absence of the Justice Minister during the crisis and called for accountability over the authorities’ response.
The statement further alleged that access was denied to a Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka inspection team visiting the Welikada Prison, describing the incident as a serious violation requiring investigation.
The group attributed the chaos at the Negombo Prison to a lack of proper administrative control, citing the absence of a permanent Commissioner-General of Prisons for more than a year and raising concerns over decisions made by officials.
It also highlighted overcrowding in prisons, noting that facilities are currently holding significantly more inmates than their intended capacity and that a large proportion of prisoners are being held without convictions.
The People’s Joint Opposition called for transparency and accountability in investigating the tragedy, stating that efforts to conceal facts or avoid responsibility must be opposed.
