The Department of Prisons has paid tribute to the seven prison officers who lost their lives during the recent unrest at Negombo Prison, describing them as “heroes who sacrificed their lives in duty.”

In a post, the department honoured the officers for their dedication and bravery, expressing profound gratitude for their service. It also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the Commissioner General of Prisons and the entire prison staff.

The officers remembered are Sergeant R.P.R. Sanjeewa, Sergeant B.N.N. Tharanga, Sergeant T.N.R. Thilakasiri, Jailer S.H.G. Chandrawansha, Sergeant D.W. Pushpakumara, Sergeant S.D.S. Aebywardena, and Sergeant A.D. Tharanga.

The seven officers were killed during the violent unrest that erupted at Negombo Prison on Monday (July 6), when prison personnel came under attack while responding to a disturbance inside the facility.