A tense situation unfolded this afternoon (22) at the Matara Prison following a clash between two groups of inmates.

The disturbance reportedly began when an attempt was made to transfer an inmate to another facility. A group of inmates, having stepped out of their ward, protested the move and behaved in a disorderly manner.

Prison officers responded by firing warning shots into the air to bring the situation under control.

According to prison sources, the unrest was brought under control to a considerable extent following the intervention.