Sri Lanka’s Prison Population Hits Breaking Point

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s prison system is bursting at the seams, with the inmate population now exceeding 34,000, according to the Department of Prisons. 

This figure is nearly three times the official capacity of around 13,200, raising serious concerns about overcrowding.

Speaking to the media, Jagath Weerasinghe, the department’s spokesperson, revealed that the spike is largely driven by arrests related to drug-related offenses, which continue to climb across the island.

In response to the crisis, the department says it is actively discussing strategies to ease congestion.

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to recruit 547 new staff members to fill critical vacancies. 

This includes 409 male prison guards and 70 female officers, aimed at strengthening the workforce and improving prison management.