By The Pulseline News Desk
The Cabinet has approved a special compensation package of up to Rs. 5 million for prison officers killed or injured during the deadly clashes at Negombo Prison in July, alongside measures to strengthen the Prison Tactical Force.
Under the approved scheme, the families of prison officers who lost their lives in the incident will receive Rs. 5 million each. Officers who suffered permanent total disabilities will also be entitled to Rs. 5 million in compensation.
Officers classified as partially disabled with a 100% loss of earning capacity will receive Rs. 4 million, while those who sustained temporary partial disabilities will be eligible for Rs. 3 million.
The special payments will be made in addition to compensation available under Public Administration Circular No. 22/93.
Deadly clashes in July
The compensation decision follows the violent clashes at Negombo Prison on July 5 and 6, 2026, which resulted in multiple deaths and injuries among prison officers and inmates.
The violence prompted investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the events that led to the clashes and the prison’s security arrangements.
Following the incident, a committee was appointed under the chairmanship of the Secretary to the Ministry of Justice and National Integration to recommend compensation and other relief for affected prison officers and their families.
The committee subsequently submitted its report, which was presented to the Cabinet by the Minister of Justice and National Integration. The Cabinet has now approved the implementation of its recommendations.
Measures to strengthen prison security
In addition to compensation, the Cabinet has approved measures to strengthen the Prison Tactical Force, which plays a role in responding to security emergencies within prison facilities.
The proposed measures include amending the Prisons Ordinance to provide the force with formal legal status, recruiting sufficient qualified personnel, providing specialised training and modern equipment, and establishing a dedicated headquarters at a suitable location.
The initiatives are intended to improve the force’s operational capacity and preparedness to respond to future incidents.
The compensation package provides additional financial assistance to officers affected by the Negombo Prison violence, while the proposed institutional reforms seek to strengthen prison security and emergency response capabilities.
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