At least 11 prisoners have been killed and more than 100 others injured in a violent riot that erupted at a prison in Sri Lanka, according to prison officials. The incident occurred at the Mahara prison, located just outside the capital, Colombo, on Wednesday, July 7, 2026.
Riot Details and Casualties
The riot began after a dispute between inmates escalated into a full-scale confrontation involving weapons and fire. Prison authorities reported that the death toll has risen to 11, with the injured being treated at nearby hospitals. Among the deceased, several are believed to have succumbed to stab wounds and injuries sustained during the chaos.
“The situation was extremely volatile, and we had to call in special task force units to regain control,” said a prison spokesperson. “We are still investigating the exact cause of the riot.”
Response and Investigation
Emergency services responded to the scene, and the prison was placed under lockdown. The Sri Lankan government has ordered a full investigation into the incident. Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured that those responsible would be held accountable.
“This is a tragic event, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of all inmates and staff,” Rajapakshe said in a statement. “We will take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Prison Overcrowding Concerns
The Mahara prison, like many in Sri Lanka, has been struggling with severe overcrowding. Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the conditions, citing a lack of adequate facilities and staff. The riot has once again highlighted the urgent need for prison reform in the country.
According to official data, Sri Lanka’s prisons are operating at over 200% capacity, with more than 30,000 inmates held in facilities designed for fewer than 15,000. The overcrowding has been linked to increased violence and unrest among prisoners.
