At least four inmates were killed and 26 others injured, yesterday evening, when officers opened fire during a riot in the Mahara prison. It was not clear how many had died, but four bodies were taken to the Ragama Hospital, according to sources.
The condition of some inmates was serious, a senior doctor treating the injured told The Island.
Police headquarters said law enforcement units including the Special Task Force had been deployed in support of the prisons guards.
The situation had been brought under control by yesterday evening, the police said, adding that inmates had caused disturbances over the spread of COVID-19 in their prison.
The riot erupted when inmates learnt that there was a surge in infections in the prison, and dozens of them had tested positive for COVI-19.
Most inmates wanted to be taken to treatment centres, making it difficult for the prison guards to control them.
The inmates turned aggressive and attempted an arson attack.
A fire was reported from the prison last night.
So far, over 1,000 corona positive cases have been reported from the prisons.
A 27-year-old Mohamed Shafrool, alias “Podi Zaharan, was arrested by police for allegedly filming the…
Former Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena and former Director General of the Board of Investment (BOI)…
The ongoing excavation at the Chemmani mass grave site in Jaffna has led to the…
Sri Lanka has categorically stated that Katchatheevu Island will not be ceded to any country…
Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan is slated to perform in Colombo this year.
Sri Lanka has reached 70% renewable energy generation during June 2025, the Ceylon Electricity Board…