Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has said the government will not show any leniency towards individuals involved in drug dealing, while urging remand prisoners to avoid returning to drug-related offences after their release.
The minister made the remarks during a discussion held at the Mahara Prison on September 1 on establishing a coordinated mechanism to respond to emergencies in prisons and improving measures related to inmate welfare.
Nanayakkara said 9,081 Government Analyst reports were issued during August alone, as steps were taken to clear delays and expedite cases. He said measures had also been introduced to address delays in issuing such reports, including providing the Government Analyst’s Department with the required staff and facilities.
According to the minister, around 500 Government Analyst reports concerning inmates at Mahara Prison were issued during August.
Addressing remand prisoners, Nanayakkara urged them to rebuild their lives after their release and stay away from drug-related offences.
“Do not get involved in drug-related offences again after leaving prison. Try to become a good person in society. But we are not prepared to show any mercy to those who sell drugs,” he said.
The minister also told inmates that they are part of Sri Lanka’s workforce and have a responsibility to contribute to the country’s progress.
During his visit, Nanayakkara inspected several areas of the Mahara Prison that were damaged by fire during a recent incident involving inmates. These included the chief jailer’s office, the rehabilitation section and weaving-related areas.
Officials from the Prisons Department, Police, Air Force, Navy, Ceylon Electricity Board, fire services and other state institutions participated in discussions on the proposed mechanism for coordinated emergency response within prisons.
