Better security, relocation of prison armoury

Among 13 recommendations by CoI into Welikada riot:

The Committee of Inquiry (CoI) into the 2012 Welikada prison riot has recommend that the prison armouries be relocated to a secure place beyond the reach of the inmates and the security system be enhanced, if future riots are to be averted. These are two of the 13 recommendations aimed at restructuring and reviewing the prison system, infrastructure and the legal frame work, made by the CoI in its report released to the media.

The CoI has also called for fresh investigations into 'matters that have not been taken in to consideration' with a special focus on alleged violations corresponding to torture and matters that constitute as offences under section 162 of the Penal Code in which offences in relation to conduct of a public servant are considered.

The Committee especially mentions that the investigations are best carried out by a special team of investigators under the direct command of the IGP.

The CoI has also recommended that compensation be paid to the families of victims who were not involved in the violent activities during the prison riot.

Among the other recommendations are proper recognition to prison staff who were actively engaged in subduing or controlling the violent action with monetary rewards and promotions. DY