Prison officials seek Minister’s protection for officer who opened fire

Colombo, July 8 (Daily Mirror) - Prison officials have urged Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara to protect the prison officer who opened fire during the recent unrest at Negombo Prison, claiming that misleading information is being circulated about his actions.

During a meeting with the Minister, the officials said the officer's intervention had been instrumental in bringing the violent situation under control and preventing a far more serious crisis.

"We were rescued from a grave crisis because of that officer. We wear this uniform as one unit. Why are such stories being spread outside?" the officials were quoted as telling the Minister.

They further warned that had inmates succeeded in escaping during the unrest, it could have resulted in a major public safety disaster.

Describing the officer as a "hero", the prison officials appealed to the Minister to ensure he is protected from what they described as unfair allegations.

Responding to the concerns, Minister Nanayakkara assured the officials that justice would be served and that the matter would be handled fairly.