Rise in contraband smuggling into Sri Lankan prisons - Prisons Dept.

Colombo (News 1st); There was an increase in attempts to smuggle contraband into Sri Lankan prisons during the April festive season, said the Department of Prisons.

Prisons Spokesperson Chandana Ekanayake speaking to News 1st said strict legal action will be instituted against people who attempt to smuggle various items into prisons. Drugs and mobile phones smuggled in by outsiders were discovered from prison cells at the Magazine Prison, Kalutara Prison, Welikada Prison - Women's Ward as well as many holding centers including the Prison Hospital. The Prisons Spokesperson Chandana Ekanayake said visitation for prisoners is strictly regulated and monitored by Prison Intelligence and Prison Officers. "Relatives of prisoners are warned to refrain from carrying illegal items into prison and if one is found in the possession of such items, they would be handed over to Sri Lanka Police to be arrested," said the Prisons Spokesperson.