Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - Violence at Negombo prison, north of Colombo, has left at least two inmates dead and dozens injured, with the unrest continuing into Monday. The clash reportedly broke out between rival inmate groups in the overcrowded prison, and hospital sources said 35 injured prisoners had been admitted for treatment.

Early reports indicate that the disturbance began on Sunday and worsened as prison authorities struggled to restore order. Police and the Special Task Force were deployed to the prison, while critically injured inmates were transferred to hospitals in Negombo and Colombo for further care. Preliminary information suggests the clash may have been triggered by tensions linked to a drug-trafficking exposure inside the prison.

The prison is reported to be overcrowded, and officials said the situation escalated quickly once the fighting started. Some reports also said inmates had protested over health and prison conditions, including concerns about dengue fever. There is no confirmation from the sources gathered here of 20 deaths; the available reports point to two confirmed deaths and several dozen injuries.

The latest information suggests a serious prison emergency in Negombo. Based on the available reports, the confirmed toll is two dead and at least 35 injured, with security forces still working to stabilize the facility.