The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has concluded its preliminary investigation into the violent unrest that occurred at the Negombo Prison on the 5th and 6th of this month, which resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals, including eight prison officers and 20 inmates. The full investigation report is scheduled to be presented to the Negombo Magistrate's Court tomorrow.
According to the initial findings, the unrest stemmed from two separate incidents. The first, on the 5th, was triggered by a dispute involving two inmates known as "ward parrots"—a term used for inmates who act as informants for prison authorities. These inmates had reportedly been providing information on illicit activities inside the prison, leading to tensions that culminated in their assault and murder by other inmates.
The second incident, which escalated on the morning of the 6th, began with a minor altercation between two inmates. When prison officers and prison police intervened to resolve the dispute, surrounding inmates allegedly became agitated and misinterpreted the intervention as a provocation. The situation quickly escalated into a violent clash, with prison staff becoming targets of the attack. Investigators said weapons, including knives, were obtained from the prison kitchen and other areas within the facility.
The investigation further suggests that tensions remained high following the initial violence on the 5th and that authorities may have underestimated the situation, contributing to the subsequent tragedy.
The CID is continuing its investigation by recording statements from hospitalised inmates and prison staff under court orders. Following the submission of the progress report to court, investigators are expected to focus on the individual acts of violence and homicide in order to pursue criminal charges against those responsible.
