COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Department of Prisons says security provided by the Police Special Task Force, Police, and the three armed forces remains in place at all prisons across the country.The department said the security arrangements are being continuously maintained to ensure the safety of the prison system.Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Ruwan Senarath says investigations are underway to determine whether various groups were involved in the recent clashes at several prisons.Deputy Minister says there are suspicions that various groups may have been involved in the recent prison clashes.He noted that in some instances, relatives of inmates were seen near prisons at the time clashes broke out, raising concerns that the incidents may have been part of an organised effort.Deputy Minister said authorities are also looking into whether attempts were being made to gain control or influence within the prison system.He also referred to a statement made by Johnston Fernando at a meeting, claiming that MP Namal Rajapaksa has significant influence within the prison system.Ruwan Senarath said the recent developments give the impression that there may be an attempt to gain control or exert influence over the prisons.He added that, under the President’s direction, a coordinated mechanism involving all security forces has been established to ensure security coverage across all 33 prisons and to take necessary action when required.
