The Prisons Department has reported a shortage of 1,800 prison officers, a situation that is hampering critical search operations.
Prisons Spokesperson, Gamini B. Dissanayake, highlighted that this shortage has put additional strain on security and operational efficiency within the prisons.
In addition, Dissanayake revealed that the inmate population across the country has surged to 300% of the intended capacity, further complicating prison management and safety.
To address these challenges, proposals have been put forward to seek technological assistance for the screening of inmates, which could help streamline operations and enhance security in overcrowded facilities.