Violent clash between rival inmate groups at Colombo prison leaves 23 dead

Colombo (The Uttam Hindu): At least 23 people , including four prison guards and 19 inmates , were killed in a violent clash between two inmate groups at a high-security prison in Sri Lanka . More than 100 people were injured in the incident , which is believed to be the country's deadliest prison violence in the last six years.

According to police, fighting between inmates from two rival drug gangs continued overnight at the capital Colombo 's main prison. As the violence escalated, the situation spiraled out of control, leaving a large number of inmates and security personnel injured.

The injured were admitted to Negombo Hospital , north of Colombo . According to hospital authorities, several of the injured were shot, while others suffered injuries from sharp-edged weapons.

Investigation into drug trafficking controversy

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the clash originated from a dispute between two groups over alleged drug trafficking activities within the prison. One group is accused of supporting the illegal drug network within the prison, while the other group was opposing it. Investigating agencies are also investigating whether organized crime networks operating within the prison played any role in instigating or escalating the violence.

Security forces took charge

As the situation spiraled out of control, Sri Lankan authorities deployed the Police Special Task Force (STF) along with riot control forces to the prison. After the situation was brought under control, three inmates were transferred to another prison to prevent further violence. A detailed investigation is currently underway, and the administration is reviewing security arrangements within the prison.