Urgent independent probe sought into deaths of transferred Negombo prison inmates

12-Jul-2026

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Amnesty International has called for an urgent, independent investigation into the deaths of two inmates transferred from Negombo Prison.

In a statement, the organisation expressed deep concern over the deaths and allegations that transferred prisoners had been subjected to torture and other forms of ill-treatment. It stressed that the authorities are responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of inmates and urged an immediate investigation into all deaths linked to the incident.

Amnesty International also called on the Government to grant the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka unrestricted access to the prisoners, allow lawyers to meet their clients, permit family visits, and ensure prompt medical treatment for inmates requiring healthcare.

It further urged the Government to ensure that the three-member committee appointed to investigate the Negombo Prison violence conducts an impartial, independent and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the use of force that resulted in the deaths.