Post-Mortems Completed for Officers Killed in Sri Lanka's Negombo Prison Riot

COLOMBO (News 1st): Post-mortem examinations have been completed on the seven prison officers who were killed during the violent clash between two groups linked to drug trafficking and organized crime inside Sri Lanka's Negombo Prison.

Prisons Department Spokesperson A.C. Gajanayake said the bodies of the deceased officers are scheduled to be brought to the Welikada Prison Training School today.

Following the formal proceedings, the remains will be handed over to their relatives for final rites.

Authorities have also identified the bodies of 11 inmates who lost their lives in the confrontation. According to the Prisons Department, post-mortem examinations on the deceased inmates are currently underway.

Meanwhile, 20 inmates who were receiving treatment at the Negombo Hospital following injuries sustained in the clash have been transferred to the Welikada Hospital for further medical care.

The deadly confrontation claimed the lives of 26 people, including seven prison officers, making it one of the worst incidents of prison violence reported in Sri Lanka in recent years.

More than 75 injured individuals remain hospitalized and are continuing to receive treatment at various medical facilities.

Amid growing concerns over prison security, Prisons Department Spokesperson A.C. Gajanayake stated that the violent situation at Negombo Prison has now been brought under control.

He said that officers of the Police Special Task Force (STF) and the Sri Lanka Army have been deployed outside the prison to strengthen security and prevent any further disturbances.

In addition, internal security operations within the prison are being managed by prison officials, according to the spokesperson.