Sri Lanka, July 15 -- Sri Lanka's prison population has increased from around 28,000 inmates to more than 42,000 since the government took office in 2024, largely due to intensified anti-drug operations ' Ratama Ekata', Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.

Addressing the recent violent clashes at Negombo Prison, Jayatissa said the sharp rise in the inmate population has placed significant pressure on the country's prison system, prompting the government to accelerate efforts to expand capacity and improve prison conditions.

He also condemned the violence, describing the attacks on both prison officers and inmates as inhumane. According to Jayatissa, a review of those receiving treatment in hospital showed injuries con...