Prison population surges to over 42,000 following ’Ratama Ekata’ operation

Colombo, July 15 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka's prison population has increased from around 28,000 inmates to more than 42,000 since the government took office in 2024, largely due to intensified anti-drug operations ' Ratama Ekata', Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.

Addressing the recent violent clashes at Negombo Prison, Jayatissa said the sharp rise in the inmate population has placed significant pressure on the country's prison system, prompting the government to accelerate efforts to expand capacity and improve prison conditions.

He also condemned the violence, describing the attacks on both prison officers and inmates as inhumane. According to Jayatissa, a review of those receiving treatment in hospital showed injuries consistent with targeted physical assaults, particularly involving severe head trauma.

The Minister said a comprehensive investigation is underway to identify those who planned and carried out the attacks, adding that legal action will be taken against all those found responsible.

To address overcrowding, the government has initiated the recruitment of additional prison officers and launched several infrastructure projects. Construction has already been completed at the Pallekele Prison, while new buildings at the Pallansena Prison have also been commissioned. The Mahara Prison storage complex was completed in 2025, and temporary accommodation is nearing completion at the Welikada, Magazine, and Colombo prisons to ease congestion.

Jayatissa further said that a high-security prison has been established at the Welisara Navy Camp to enhance security and accommodate inmates requiring higher levels of supervision.

Looking ahead, he said additional prison development projects are planned between 2026 and 2029 at Pallekele, Wataraka, Kalutara, Kuruvita, and Matara as part of the government's long-term strategy to modernize prison infrastructure, reduce overcrowding, and improve conditions for both inmates and prison staff.