A Mahara Prison clash left one inmate dead and several injured after gunshots and a fire triggered a major security operation.
A Mahara Prison clash left one inmate dead and several others injured after gunshots and a fire triggered a major security deployment.
Police sources initially reported that four inmates suffered injuries during the tense situation at the prison premises this evening (17).
Reports said a confrontation between a group of inmates inside the prison led to the unrest.
Several gunshots were then heard from within the facility. The sounds created panic and heightened tension in the surrounding area.
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Authorities immediately summoned the Police Special Task Force and several police teams to bring the situation under control.
News of the incident prompted many relatives of inmates to gather near Mahara Prison’s main entrance.
A reporter at the scene said the relatives appeared highly distressed as they sought information about the safety of family members held inside.
Some relatives reportedly attempted to enter the prison while crying. However, security personnel stopped them at the entrance.
Authorities subsequently strengthened security around the facility. Police and prison officers continued operations to restore order and secure the premises.
The injured inmates were taken for treatment, while police and prison authorities opened further investigations into the incident.
Later reports said one inmate injured during the unrest at Mahara Prison this afternoon (01) had died.
Seven injured inmates were reportedly admitted to the Ragama Teaching Hospital following the confrontation.
One of those receiving treatment later died, according to the report.
A fire also erupted inside a building within the prison compound during the unrest.
Authorities again deployed police and several STF teams to strengthen security, control the disturbance and protect the prison.
Four other injured inmates were reportedly receiving inpatient treatment at the Ragama Teaching Hospital.
The reports contain different dates and initial injury totals. However, the latest account confirms one death, seven hospital admissions and four inmates continuing to receive treatment after the Mahara Prison clash.
