**At Least 25 Killed in Sri Lanka Prison Riots**
In a tragic outbreak of violence, at least 25 individuals have lost their lives, including four prison guards, and over 100 others have sustained injuries during riots at Negombo Prison in western Sri Lanka. The unrest, which has escalated over two days, began with clashes between rival groups of inmates in the coastal town located north of the capital, Colombo.
The disturbances reportedly began on Sunday when inmates allegedly seized firearms from prison guards. Initial reports indicate that two individuals were killed that day, with many others injured. As tensions rose, male prisoners and women from an adjacent unit took to the rooftops of the prison, demanding their release.
The situation deteriorated further on Monday when inmates attempted to storm the prison gates, prompting a swift response from security forces. Eyewitness accounts described the sound of multiple gunshots ringing out from within the prison. The violence appears to have been sparked by a dispute related to an inmate who had informed authorities about a drug trafficking operation taking place inside the facility.
In the wake of the violence, some of the injured were transported to Negombo Hospital, where the director reported that several patients arrived with gunshot wounds, while others suffered from cuts and severe bruises. Additional casualties were taken to Colombo National Hospital for treatment. Reports also indicated that part of the prison's roof collapsed during the chaos, resulting in injuries to some women involved in the unrest.
Outside the prison, crowds of relatives of inmates gathered, anxiously seeking information about their loved ones. Many expressed frustration and concern, stating that they had not received updates regarding the safety or whereabouts of those inside the facility.
As the situation remains tense, authorities have begun clearing areas within the prison, and the military has been placed on standby following a request for support from police. AC Gajanayake, the media spokesman for the prisons commissioner, confirmed that measures are being taken to transfer inmates to other facilities to alleviate the overcrowding.
In response to the riots, Minister of Justice and Prisons Harshana Nanayakkara has ordered an investigation into the events that transpired, with a report expected to be submitted to the government.
This incident marks one of the most severe prison riots in Sri Lanka in recent years. While unrest in the country’s overcrowded prisons is not uncommon, the scale of this violence is particularly alarming. As of the latest reports, Sri Lankan prisons are holding approximately 41,250 inmates, which is four times their intended capacity.
The situation at Negombo Prison continues to develop, and further updates are anticipated as authorities work to restore order and address the underlying issues contributing to such violent outbreaks.