By Asiri Fernando

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) yesterday recorded statements from 26 persons linked to the Mahara Prison unrest, DIG Ajith Rohana said.

Among those who were questioned were six inmates who were returned to the Prison following treatment at Ragama Hospital for injuries. 

According to DIG Rohana, the CID has recorded statements from 10 medical officers including two male nurses who were at the Prison Medical Ward and 10 Prison officers including the Chief Jailor of the Mahara Prison. 

"We are continuing the investigation and assessment of the property damage will also be finalised. We want to find out if there was anyone who instigated this unrest or if anyone conspired to create unrest," DIG Rohana added. 

An injured inmate who was receiving treatment at the Ragama Hospital escaped on Wednesday (2 December) and was arrested by Prison officers last morning and is now being held at Welikada Prison.

In addition, a five-member Committee has been appointed by Justice Minister Ali Sabry PC to inquire into the Mahara Prison unrest, which claimed 11 lives of inmates and injured more than 100. 

The newly-appointed committee also visited the prison complex yesterday. 

The committee is chaired by retired High Court Judge Kusala Sarojini Weerawardhena while the other members comprise U.R. de Silva PC, Additional Secretary (Administration) to the Justice Ministry Rohana Hapugaswatta, DIG (Retd) Lalinda Ranaweera and former Prisons Commissioner Gamini Jayasinghe. 

However, DIG Rohana wrote to the Justice Minister this week requesting he be removed from the committee, citing a conflict of interest.

Opp. raises questions over Mahara shooting as probe committee begins work