Negombo is separate, Mahara is separate - Minister of Justice

Justice Minister Harsha Nanayakkara states that the security forces have succeeded in controlling the unrest that occurred within the Mahara Prison and bringing it to a peaceful level. The Minister also points out that this incident takes on a completely different form compared to the situation that occurred previously at Negombo Prison.

Although a clash occurred between two groups of inmates at Negombo Prison, it has been observed that the Mahara incident was aimed at the prison administration. It is suspected that the displeasure and anger arising from the government's stringent decisions to prevent drugs from entering prisons may be the main reason for this unrest. The Minister further stated that a program to control drug trafficking is being implemented in every prison on the island, and the opposition to it leads to such situations, and specific information regarding this will be confirmed after the preliminary investigation report is received.

Currently, both the police and the Police Special Task Force (STF) have been deployed for the security of the prison complex, and work has commenced to restore damaged property. With the situation under control, inmates have been returned to their cells, and steps have been taken to maintain the daily operations of the prison as usual, providing them with necessary food and drink facilities.

A preliminary investigation report has been called for regarding this incident, and necessary legal steps are being taken concerning the death of one inmate. Further details related to this incident are expected to be revealed once the full report is received.