The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has launched an investigation into the recent violence at the Negombo Prison and subsequent incidents at other prisons, focusing on the circumstances that led to the clashes, the deaths and injuries of inmates and prison officers, and allegations of torture and ill-treatment.
In a statement issued today (10), the HRCSL said its investigation will also examine the deaths of two inmates who were transferred from the Negombo Prison to other prison facilities while in the custody of prison officials.
The Commission said it has not reached any conclusions and is currently gathering evidence, including statements from inmates and prison officials.
It said preliminary observations from visits to prisons where transferred inmates are being held found that several inmates had sustained injuries and that medical treatment had been delayed. The HRCSL recommended that injured inmates receive medical care without delay, warning that systematic delays in treatment could amount to a form of reprisal.
The Commission also expressed deep concern over being denied access to Welikada Prison during an unannounced visit at around 8.30 p.m. on July 7, saying the denial violated the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka Act and undermined its authority to investigate allegations of torture and ill-treatment.
Although access was granted the following day, the HRCSL said the delay deprived it of the opportunity to conduct a timely investigation. It has summoned the Commissioner General of Prisons (Covering Up Duties) and the Chief Jailer of Welikada Prison to explain the circumstances under which access was denied.
The Commission said updates on the progress of the investigation will be released through periodic public statements and urged the media to report developments accurately and responsibly. (Newswire)