Overcrowding crisis in Sri Lankan prisons intensifies with 10,000 new arrests

Colombo (LNW): Prisons nationwide are grappling with a severe issue of overcrowding as a consequence of heightened police operations, particularly the recent crackdown on drugs and underworld activities that resulted in the apprehension of over 10,000 suspects.

A staggering 30,000 inmates incarcerated in 30 prisons across the country, exceeding the intended capacity of approximately 13,000 inmates for these facilities, current data from the Prisons Department revealed.

Of particular concern is the fact that more than half of the prison population is awaiting trial, languishing behind bars due to prolonged delays in the legal process.

The recent island-wide police operation, aimed at curbing drug-related and underworld activities, led to the arrest of more than 10,000 suspects.

Individuals arrested for serious crimes, such as drug possession, will be detained in prison, while those accused of minor offenses may be released on police bail, according to sources from the Public Security Ministry.

Despite being constructed to accommodate around 13,000 inmates, the prisons currently house double that number.

Gamini Dissanayake, the Prisons spokesman, stated that officials are actively seeking temporary space within the prisons for suspects with short-term detention requirements.

Some inmates are also being relocated to prison camps to alleviate the pressure on conventional prisons.

Simultaneously, authorities are making efforts to expedite the release of individuals held for minor offenses after their court hearings, addressing the urgent need to manage the overcrowded prison conditions.