Audit Reveals Major Security Lapses and Overcrowding in Sri Lankan Prisons.
A recent audit has exposed serious security lapses in Sri Lankan prisons, reporting that 995 prisoners or suspects escaped custody over the past six years, with 554 still at large.
The audit emphasized that it is the duty of the Prisons Department to ensure the security and protection of all prisoners and remand inmates under Sri Lankan courts, while also rehabilitating and socializing them as responsible citizens.
The Accounting Officer stated that necessary measures will be implemented in consultation with relevant divisions, using modern technology to prevent future escapes.
The 2024 audit also highlighted delays in releasing suspects who had paid bail. In 11 prison institutions, 9,091 suspects were released a day after paying bail instead of immediately, as required by procedure. The delays were partly due to court confirmations or bail orders issued on Fridays, resulting in releases the following Monday. The audit recommended that suspects be released on the same day bail is granted, in accordance with legal requirements.
Prison overcrowding remains a critical concern. Facilities designed for 10,350 inmates are currently housing nearly 37,000, representing an overcapacity of more than 250%.
Last year, 3,258 prisoners across 27 institutions were unable to pay minor fines, contributing significantly to congestion. The audit recommended measures such as pardons for eligible inmates to help alleviate overcrowding.
Delays were also reported in releasing prisoners who had paid fines. In 17 institutions, 2,278 inmates were not released on the same day as their release orders.
Additionally, 1,252 inmates across 21 institutions remained in custody despite being granted bail, with 55 held for over a year. The delays were largely due to inmates being unable to meet bail conditions, relatives failing to appear to post bail, and lack of financial resources.
The audit recommended formal coordination with relevant institutions and reduced bail conditions to expedite prisoner releases and address systemic delays.
