Nov 30, Colombo: Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa Monday (Nov. 30) called on the government to appoint a separate commission to investigate the Mahara prison incident, which killed eight inmates of the prison.

The Leader of the Opposition said that the manner in which the cluster was formed and the reasons for the incident should be investigated separately.

Meanwhile, MP Lakshman Kiriella stated that similar incidents take place at the old Bogambara Prison where the COVID-19 infected inmates are quarantined, as well.

Responding to the Opposition MPs, State Minister of Prison Reforms Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle stated that steps have been taken to identify the coronavirus infected in prisons and provide them with the necessary medical treatment.

The Minister further said following consultation with the Minister of Justice to reduce congestion in remand prisons, measures will be taken to produce those convicted as drug traffickers and users in court and release on bail if they have committed minor offenses.

Minister Fernandopulle affirmed that the investigations regarding the riot in the Mahara prison will be handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to bring the truth to light.