24 More Suspects Named in Negombo Prison Riot

COLOMBO (News 1st); A major development was recorded in the ongoing investigation into the deaths of 32 inmates during the Negombo Prison unrest, with the Negombo Chief Magistrate granting permission to name 24 additional suspects in the case.

The approval was issued by Negombo Chief Magistrate Shilani Perera following a request made by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

All 24 newly named suspects were inmates who were inside the prison at the time the incident occurred.

Prior to today's court proceedings, 38 individuals had already been named as suspects in connection with the incident.

The Chief Magistrate further ordered that the suspects be produced before court within the day.

As a result, the total number of suspects named in the case has now risen to 62.

Although the suspects were scheduled to be presented for an identification parade, the Magistrate ordered the proceedings postponed until August 21.

The court was informed that several officers who are expected to appear as witnesses remain hospitalized after sustaining injuries during the prison incident.

The Chief Magistrate also ordered that the suspects produced before court today be remanded until August 21.

In addition, the court directed that the 24 suspects named today be included in the case proceedings and produced before court on August 21.

For security reasons, the names of the suspects were not disclosed in open court. Instead, officers of the Criminal Investigation Department handed over the list of names and the relevant B Report directly to the Magistrate.