Opposition Parliamentarian Dayasiri Jayasekara has raised questions over the events that led to the deadly clash at the Negombo Prison, alleging that the situation worsened after a special group of officers was deployed to the facility.
Speaking to the media, Jayasekara claimed that prison officials had initially managed to control the first confrontation and that the inmates involved should have been transferred to other prisons.
He alleged that instead of taking that action, another special team of officers was sent to the prison the following morning, after which the conflict reportedly erupted again.
Jayasekara questioned who had authorised the deployment of the special unit, claiming that the arrival of the group contributed to the escalation of the situation.
He further stated that more than 25 people had lost their lives as a result of the incident and called for answers regarding the decisions taken during the crisis.
The MP also criticised the actions of the Justice Ministry, claiming that its focus had been limited to legislative changes, including proposals related to extending judges’ retirement periods.
Authorities have not yet responded to all of the allegations raised by Jayasekara.
