The deceased include seven prison officers and 19 inmates, making the incident one of the deadliest prison disturbances in Sri Lanka's recent history.
Authorities said 23 prison officers and 54 inmates are currently receiving treatment at hospitals for injuries sustained during the unrest.
The violence also caused extensive damage to prison infrastructure. Officials confirmed that the prison's CCTV surveillance system and a body scanner were completely destroyed during the clashes, hampering security operations inside the facility.
As part of efforts to restore order and strengthen security, approximately 700 inmates have been transferred from Negombo Prison to the Agunukolapelessa, Bogambara, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kuruwita prisons.
The situation outside the prison became increasingly tense as large numbers of relatives gathered following reports of casualties. Family members demanded information about the safety and whereabouts of inmates, prompting heightened security around the prison.
With the unrest continuing to spread across the prison complex, authorities sought the assistance of the Sri Lanka Air Force. A Bell 412 helicopter and Air Force drones were deployed to conduct aerial surveillance and provide real-time intelligence to commanders on the ground.
Prison officers later re-entered the facility with the support of the Sri Lanka Police and the Special Task Force (STF) in a coordinated operation to regain control of key sections of the prison and evacuate the wounded.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the appointment of an independent committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
The committee has been tasked with determining the causes of the violence, recommending corrective measures, and proposing reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Retired Supreme Court Justice Priyantha Fernando has been appointed Chairman of the committee. The other members are retired Additional Solicitor General and President's Counsel Milinda Gunathilaka, and President's Counsel Mohan Weerakoon.
The committee is expected to carry out a detailed inquiry into all aspects of the prison unrest before submitting its findings and recommendations to the government.
Authorities continue investigations while security remains heightened at Negombo Prison following the deadly violence.
