25 Killed, Over 100 Injured in Sri Lanka Prison Gang Clash, Officials Say

At least 25 people, including four prison guards, were killed and more than 100 inmates and prison officials were injured after violent clashes between rival inmate groups erupted at Negombo Prison in western Sri Lanka, marking the country's deadliest prison violence in years.

The violence began on Sunday evening and continued overnight, with authorities struggling to restore order at the overcrowded prison, located about 35 kilometres north of Colombo.

Rival gangs blamed

According to police and hospital officials, the clashes are believed to have involved rival inmate groups linked to the illegal drug trade.

Hospital director Pushpa Gamlath said the facility received the bodies of those killed and admitted more than 100 injured prisoners and prison staff for treatment. Several victims suffered gunshot wounds, while others sustained serious injuries during the violence.

Authorities have not yet announced what triggered the clashes, and investigations are continuing.

Deadliest prison violence in years

The incident is one of the worst episodes of prison violence in Sri Lanka in recent years.

Security forces were deployed around the prison as relatives of inmates gathered outside seeking information about their family members. Local residents reported hearing gunfire during the unrest.

Sri Lanka's prison system has long struggled with severe overcrowding. Official figures show that more than 39,000 inmates are housed in facilities designed to accommodate around 10,000 prisoners, raising concerns over prison conditions and security.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the violence and have yet to announce whether any arrests or disciplinary action will follow.