Prison population falls 12%; Govt. moves to speed up Analyst’s reports

Friday, 23 October 2026 04:53 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara told Parliament yesterday the prison population fell by 5,068, or 12%, between July and September following measures to ease overcrowding, as the Government moves to clear delays in Government Analyst’s reports.

The number of inmates declined from 41,993 on 1 July to 36,925 by 30 September, he said.

Delays in obtaining Government Analyst’s reports have been identified as one of the main factors behind prison overcrowding. The department issued 1,506 reports in August and September alone after its workforce was strengthened and vacancies filled, Nanayakkara said. Under proposed legislative amendments, the Government Analyst will be required to issue a report within two months of receiving an item for examination.

Further amendments would change the handling of narcotics seized as evidence. Instead of retaining entire packages until court proceedings conclude, authorities will photograph and, where necessary, video-record the substances and inform the relevant Magistrate, who will be empowered to authorise their prompt destruction, subject to conditions imposed by the court.

Nanayakkara said the amendments were intended to ensure the procedures are carried out lawfully, without affecting the fundamental rights of suspects or accused persons, including their right to a fair trial.