An inmate was hospitalised with a gunshot wound on Sunday evening after prison officers opened fire on two detainees who allegedly tried to flee Galle Prison.
The Police Media Division said the incident occurred when two inmates attempted to escape custody and prison officials intervened, opening fire to prevent the breakout. One inmate was struck in the left shoulder and admitted to the Galle National Hospital under police protection for further treatment, according to Newswire. The second detainee was apprehended at the scene by prison officers.
Ada Derana reported the incident shortly after 6.20 pm, citing police, and confirmed that further investigations are underway.
No further details on the identities of the inmates, their offences or the circumstances of the attempted escape have been released. Authorities have not said whether the wounded detainee’s condition is critical.
The shooting comes amid a string of separate security incidents reported across the country on Sunday, including a drug suspect shot during an attempted bolt in Galgamuwa earlier in the day.
