The Negombo Magistrate’s Court was today presented with detailed forensic findings confirming that 17 of the 28 deaths inside Negombo Prison were caused by gunshot injuries, while the remaining 11 resulted from assaults with blunt weapons. These findings were formally disclosed in open court by Negombo Chief Magistrate Shilani Perera after reviewing all 28 post‑mortem reports submitted by the Judicial Medical Officer.
The deaths occurred during a violent confrontation inside the prison involving inmates, prison officers, and members of the Rapid Strike Force (RSF). According to earlier testimonies, the incident unfolded during a search operation that escalated into a clash, with gunfire reported inside multiple prison wards. Witnesses have told investigators that several inmates were allegedly lined up and assaulted, while others were caught in crossfire as RSF personnel attempted to regain control of the facility.
Judicial observations and directions
After the forensic findings were tabled, Magistrate Perera stressed that the court would not draw distinctions between prison officers and inmates, noting that “justice must apply equally to all parties involved.” She further observed that the evidence already before the court suggested the commission of serious criminal offences, including unlawful killings, excessive use of force, and possible acts of torture.
The Magistrate directed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the incident and submit a full report to the court.
CID progress and expanded investigative scope
The CID’s Commercial Crimes Division—tasked with investigating the deaths of 10 Rapid Strike Force personnel and 21 inmates—submitted a fresh progress report today.
Appearing before court, Sub‑Inspector Madhuranga stated that investigators have now recorded 969 witness statements, including:
- 200 prison officers
- 563 inmates
- 130 Police Special Task Force personnel
- 11 police officers
- 65 civilians
CID officers also reported that aliases used by 40 suspects have been identified, a development expected to assist in tracing individual responsibility for specific acts of violence.
Investigators are additionally examining CCTV footage, ballistic evidence, and communications records from the day of the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that multiple firearms were discharged inside restricted prison zones, raising questions about command responsibility and adherence to operational protocols.
Wider implications
The Negombo Prison deaths have triggered intense public scrutiny, with human rights groups calling for independent oversight and accountability. Legal experts note that the combination of gunshot injuries, blunt‑force trauma, and conflicting accounts from officers and inmates points to a systemic breakdown of command and control within the prison during the incident.
A full CID report is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks.