Falling tree branch in Matara Prison claims inmate’s life, injures 11
(Photo by YANGHONG YU on Unsplash)
A branch from a Bo tree within the Matara Prison fell at around 10:30 PM yesterday (January 1), resulting in the death of one inmate and injuries to 11 others.
The deceased was a 34-year-old resident of Midigama.
Prison officials stated that over 400 inmates were inside the building at the time of the incident.
The branch fell onto a building within the prison, causing injuries to 12 inmates, who were subsequently admitted to Matara General Hospital.
One of the injured succumbed to their injuries, while the remaining 11 are currently receiving treatment at the hospital. Hospital sources report that the condition of one individual is critical.
Following the incident, the remaining inmates became unruly, but authorities promptly brought the situation under control.
To strengthen security within the prison, police, the Special Task Force (STF), the military, and additional personnel from Galle Prison were deployed.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka expands Internal Affairs Units to 250 more state institutions January 30, 2026
- Three arrested over Rs. 17 Million Lanka Sathosa garlic scam January 30, 2026
- Businessman arrested over Rs. 30 Million money laundering case linked to former minister January 30, 2026
- Six police officers arrested over alleged priest assault granted bail January 29, 2026
- Sri Lanka moves toward ‘Dream School’ system for all grades January 29, 2026
