A violent clash between convicted prisoners and undertrial inmates at Negombo Prison left at least 25 people dead
July 6, 2026: At least 25 people were killed and more than 100 others injured in a violent clash inside Negombo Prison in Sri Lanka on Sunday, officials confirmed on Monday. The confrontation reportedly broke out between convicted prisoners and undertrial inmates awaiting further judicial proceedings. Authorities have not yet revealed what triggered the violence.
Following the deadly incident, injured inmates were evacuated from the prison and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Local television footage showed several prisoners being taken out on buses under heavy security. Officials have not confirmed whether any prison staff or security personnel were among those killed or injured.
The Sri Lankan military said its personnel were on standby outside the prison to assist local law enforcement if required. Negombo, located around 35 kilometres north of Colombo, is one of the country’s major coastal cities. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the clash and restore order inside the prison.