Geneva, 10 July 2026
The outbreak
of deadly violence this past week at a Sri Lanka jail in
Negombo and reports of reprisals against inmates by guards
at other prisons are deeply alarming. The families of the
dozens killed and injured – both inmates and prison
officers – deserve to know the truth and see
accountability.
The violence underscores the urgency
of tackling structural concerns around detention in Sri
Lanka, notably prolonged pre-trial detention, overcrowding
and inadequate conditions in detention facilities.
Furthermore, a disproportionate number of people are
detained for drug-related offences, many of whom should
benefit from health-centred responses as opposed to
incarceration.
We welcome the authorities’ pledge to
carry out investigations into the incidents, which must be
prompt, independent and transparent. We urge the authorities
to grant the Human Rights Commission of Sri
Lankaunfettered access to Negombo, as well as all other
prisons, including detention facilities where prisoners were
transferred and allegedly subjected to torture and other
forms of
ill-treatment.
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