Sri Lanka, July 11 -- Fatal violence at the Negombo prison and alleged guard reprisals against inmates in other facilities warrant deep alarm, the United Nations human rights office stated.

UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani stressed that families of the dozens of deceased and injured inmates and officers deserve truth and accountability.

The recent unrest highlights an urgent need to resolve structural deficiencies within the Sri Lankan penal system, particularly overcrowding, poor facility conditions, and lengthy pre-trial detention.

A disproportionate number of individuals face incarceration for drug offences when health-centred interventions would be more appropriate.

The international body welcomed official pro...