Death toll in Sri Lanka's prison clash rises to 26, with a further 77 in hospital
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — The death toll in Sri Lanka's prison clash rose Tuesday to 26 — seven prison officials and 19 inmates — with authorities alleging the skirmish was linked to narcotic drugs and gang rivalries but prison welfare groups saying overcrowding and poor conditions had much to do with it, too.
The unrest at the prison in Negombo, about 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of the capital, Colombo, started between inmates on Sunday and turned violent on Monday after the inmates attacked the guards who intervened. Officials said the inmates even tried to break through the main gate, but were stopped.
A further 77 people — 23 prison officials and 54 inmates — are still being treated in hospitals.
On Tuesday, Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara told parliament that they believe the clash is linked to narcotic drugs and gang rivalries.
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