HRC launches probe into Negombo prison clash

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) initiated a probe to examine the factors that triggered the recent unrest at the Negombo Prison, which led to severe casualties and fatalities among both detainees and prison staff.

The investigation targets the refusal of entry encountered by commission representatives at the Welikada Prison during an unnotified inspection on July 7, the commission pointed out in a recently released press release.

Furthermore, the Human Rights Commission is probing into allegations of torture and physical abuse directed at detainees transferred from the Negombo facility to alternative locations post-clash period, as well as the specific situations surrounding the fatalities of two transferred inmates while held by prison authorities.

The commission stressed that it reached no definitive conclusions so far, as the process of gathering testimonies from detainees and staff members still continues.

Initial observations recorded during field visits to the receiving detention centres are under evaluation, the commission added.

HRCSL representatives noted during these inspections that several transferred individuals bore injuries and claimed that significant delays in securing necessary medical attention.

Blocking officials at Welikada Prison on July 7 breaches the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka Act, No. 21 of 1996, directly obstructing the legal mandate to oversee inmate welfare during active torture investigations, the commission emphasised in the statement.

Despite entry being cleared on July 8, the critical delay disrupted a swift investigation.

To address this, the Commissioner General of Prisons (Covering Up Duties) and the Chief Jailer of Welikada Prison face summons to clarify the blockade.