AGP Executive Report

Prison & Human Rights: Sri Lanka’s HRCSL says no conclusions yet in its probe into the Negombo Prison violence, including deaths and injuries, allegations of torture, and claims of ill-treatment of transferred inmates, while UN rights officials also urge a prompt, independent, transparent investigation with unrestricted access to prisons. Forensics: Post-mortems reported gunshot deaths and fatal blunt-force head injuries among officers and inmates, with some cases still pending. Public Health & Care Access: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says the 2027 Budget will strengthen public healthcare—especially primary care via “Arogya Suwa Seva Centres”—and restart suspended hospital projects, alongside faster tech upgrades to reduce reliance on private treatment. Dengue Response: Western Province dengue risk is rising, with hospitals under strain and experts warning the next two weeks are critical as mosquito breeding accelerates. Tobacco Policy: SLMA and a tobacco expert committee urge a “Tobacco-Free Generation” policy banning sales to those born after 2010. Water Safety: Thambuttegama’s new water supply project is inaugurated to improve drinking-water safety and reduce chronic disease risk. Inclusive Health Data: UNFPA and Parliament sign an MoU to strengthen evidence-based policymaking using population data, including protections for women and young people.

Prison Health & Rights: The UN Human Rights Office is urging Sri Lanka to launch a prompt, independent, transparent probe into the deadly Negombo Prison violence and alleged torture, highlighting overcrowding, prolonged pre-trial detention and poor conditions; it also calls for the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka to have unrestricted access to Negombo and other prisons where transferred inmates were held. Dengue Response: Colombo’s dengue surge is pushing calls for urgent city-wide action, including environmental cleanup around Beira Lake and warnings that the next two weeks in the Western Province could be critical as hospitals face capacity strain. Public Healthcare Funding: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says the 2027 Budget will strengthen public healthcare—especially primary care via “Arogya Suwa Seva Centres”—and expand technology in state hospitals to reduce reliance on costly private treatment. Water & Kidney Disease: New and restarted drinking-water projects (including Thambuttegama and Anuradhapura North phases) are being framed as long-term steps to improve safe water and tackle chronic kidney disease of unknown origin. Sexual Health Screening: A mobile blood testing programme in Colombo and Gampaha is offering voluntary screening for HIV, Hepatitis B and other STDs with counselling and referral for treatment. Tobacco Prevention: SLMA and a tobacco expert group have urged a “Tobacco-Free Generation” policy to ban tobacco sales to people born after 2010.

Public Health Funding: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says the 2027 Budget will strengthen Sri Lanka’s public healthcare, with more focus on primary care via “Arogya Suwa Seva Centres” and technology upgrades in state hospitals to cut reliance on costly private treatment. Dengue Alert: Western Province is facing a critical two-week dengue risk as mosquito larval density rises; hospitals are reportedly beyond capacity, with some patients sharing beds. Water & Kidney Disease: The Thambuttegama Water Supply Project (Rs. 32bn) was commissioned to provide safe drinking water to 91,810 people, targeting chronic kidney disease of unknown origin linked to poor water quality. More Water Projects: The government also plans 22 drinking water projects next year and new connections for nearly one million families, again tying clean water to CKDu prevention. Sexual Health Screening: A mobile blood testing programme in Colombo and Gampaha will screen for STDs including HIV and Hepatitis B, with voluntary, confidential results and counselling. Prison Health & Rights: After the Negombo prison riot that killed 28, UN and HRCSL calls are growing for prompt, independent investigations, unfettered access to prisons, and urgent medical care for injured inmates amid allegations of torture and ill-treatment. Tobacco Policy Push: SLMA and a tobacco expert group urge a “Tobacco-Free Generation” policy banning sales to people born after 2010.

Public Healthcare Funding: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says the 2027 Budget will strengthen Sri Lanka’s public healthcare to internationally recognised standards, with a big push on primary care via “Arogya Suwa Seva Centres,” faster hospital technology upgrades, and restarting suspended health infrastructure projects. Prison Health & Rights: After the Negombo Prison violence, the HRCSL says it has not reached conclusions but is reviewing deaths, injuries, alleged torture, and delays in medical care for transferred inmates; the UN Human Rights Office calls the situation “deeply alarming” and urges prompt, independent, transparent probes with unrestricted HRCSL access. Dengue Surge: Dengue cases have climbed past 66,000, with deaths reported and warnings that spread is accelerating in schools and universities, prompting intensified mosquito control. STI Screening Access: Mobile blood testing for HIV and STDs begins in Colombo and Gampaha, offering voluntary, confidential screening with counselling and treatment referrals. Kidney Disease & Clean Water: New drinking water projects are underway and planned—including the Thambuttegama Water Supply Project and the Anuradhapura North Water Supply Project—linked to tackling chronic kidney disease by improving safe water access. Non-communicable Care Capacity: Sri Lanka faces a kidney stone surgery backlog of over 5,000 patients, with a new Mirigama treatment centre set to open to reduce waiting lists.

Prison & Human Rights: UN urges Sri Lanka to give the Human Rights Commission “unfettered access” to prisons after the Negombo violence, warning of reprisals and calling for prompt, independent, transparent probes. Overcrowding Response: Reuters reports Sri Lanka is reopening a colonial jail and recruiting staff to cut overcrowding after the riot killed 28, with advocates describing “salmon packing” and unsafe conditions. Forensics Update: Post-mortems say some Negombo prison officers died from gunshots and others from blunt-force head injuries, with reports of extreme assault details. Dengue Surge: Dengue cases have climbed to 66,064 with 46 deaths; authorities say spread is accelerating in schools and universities, while universities shift to online classes and mosquito-control drives continue. Care Access: Over 5,000 kidney stone patients are stuck in surgery queues; a new Mirigama National Kidney Stone Treatment Centre is set to open July 12. STI Testing Push: Health authorities launched a mobile blood testing programme in Colombo and Gampaha for STDs including HIV and Hepatitis B, with voluntary, confidential screening and counselling. Medical Milestone: Conjoined twins were successfully separated in a complex surgery at Peradeniya, reigniting debate on public healthcare capacity. Health Policy Data: UNFPA and Parliament signed an MoU to strengthen evidence-based policymaking using population data, including impacts on women’s and young people’s health and rights.

Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka’s dengue crisis is worsening fast, with reported cases rising to 65,034 and deaths climbing to 45, as health authorities warn hospitals are nearing maximum capacity and congestion is mounting. Mosquito Control Push: The Navy joined health teams in “Towards a Dengue-Free Colombo,” inspecting 60 locations, finding 1,796 breeding sites, and running 101 awareness sessions. University Disruptions: With the outbreak continuing, the University of Colombo is moving some lectures online, while other universities had already temporarily closed campuses to help students rest and recover. Healthcare Infrastructure: The government says it has restarted 26 major healthcare projects to upgrade public services and build a more technologically advanced system. Major Surgery: Conjoined twins were successfully separated in a landmark operation at Peradeniya Teaching Hospital and partner facilities, a major win for Sri Lanka’s paediatric care. Prison Health & Safety: After the Negombo Prison violence, post-mortems report brutal head injuries, and rights groups are calling for urgent, independent investigations and proper medical access for transferred inmates.

Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka’s dengue situation is worsening fast, with reported cases reaching 65,034 and deaths rising to 45; the National Dengue Control Unit says 1,300 new cases were recorded in the past 24 hours, and major hospitals are nearing maximum capacity. Prison Crisis & Health Impact: The Negombo Prison unrest continues to ripple through the health system, with the death toll climbing to 29 (including 8 prison officers) and injured inmates still being treated after transfers; authorities say violence was linked to drug smuggling inside the jail, while the Prisons Chief says there was no prior intelligence and multiple investigations are underway. Accountability Push: The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) is calling for an independent, transparent probe and prison reforms, as families demand answers and officials face pressure over overcrowding and conditions. System Response: Sri Lanka is restarting 26 major health infrastructure projects and is also moving to reduce prison overcrowding by re-establishing Old Bogambara Prison and converting parts of Mahamodara Hospital in Galle into a prison facility. Prevention & Care: Health authorities are also warning about rising tinea (ringworm) cases and stress avoiding steroid creams without medical advice. Local Research Spotlight: Sri Lanka’s hypertension research is gaining global recognition, with a Hypertension Summit 2026 planned for 11 July to push early detection and better treatment.

Negombo Prison Crisis: Sri Lanka’s deadliest prison riot in years continues to ripple through hospitals and families, with the death toll now reported at 28 (including eight prison officers) after another officer died in the Colombo National Hospital; authorities say the unrest was triggered by clashes between inmate groups linked to drug smuggling, with reports of CCTV being disabled and inmates allegedly attacking officers with stones and other objects. Prison Overcrowding Response: Justice officials say Sri Lanka will convert a disused hospital section into a new prison at Mahamodara in Galle to ease overcrowding, following the Negombo tragedy and ongoing investigations. Dengue Update: Dengue remains a major health pressure point: the National Dengue Control Unit reports 63,835 cases so far this year and 42 deaths, while reporting rates have eased in some districts; health authorities also warn of rising complications among children. Skin Health Alert: Dermatology clinics report a rise in tinea (ringworm), with experts urging people to stop using steroid creams without medical advice and to seek proper diagnosis and hygiene to prevent spread. Dengue Prevention & Vaccine Talk: A paediatric dengue specialist says an internationally approved dengue vaccine (TAK-003/Qdenga) shows over 90% effectiveness against DENV-2 and should be considered alongside proven mosquito control methods like Wolbachia. Inclusive Education: Education and UNICEF-linked efforts are underway to strengthen inclusive education planning, with health ministries among partners supporting access for children with disabilities and language inclusion.

Dengue Update: Sri Lanka’s dengue situation remains tense as deaths climb to 42, with 63,835 cases reported so far; while case reporting has eased in Galle, Matara, Ratnapura and Kegalle, Colombo, Gampaha and Puttalam are still seeing high numbers. Prevention Push: The Navy joined Western Province anti-dengue efforts for a third straight day, inspecting 52 sites and eliminating 1,231 mosquito breeding spots, alongside public awareness drives. Vaccine Outlook: A paediatric dengue specialist says an internationally approved vaccine could cut the burden, citing over 90% effectiveness against DENV-2, while stressing dengue can’t be eradicated by vaccine alone. Skin Health: Tinea (ringworm) cases are rising, and experts warn against steroid creams used without proper diagnosis, which can spread fungal infections. Prison Crisis (Health Impact): After the Negombo prison riot, authorities say 26 people died and 77 remain hospitalized; the Justice Ministry also plans to open a new prison space in a disused hospital building due to overcrowding.

Prison Health Crisis: Sri Lanka’s Negombo Prison riot remains a major medical emergency, with the death toll rising to 26 (7 prison officers, 19 inmates) and 77 still in hospital, as authorities allege the clashes were driven by drug smuggling and gang rivalries while welfare groups point to overcrowding and poor conditions. Health Ministry Response: Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa visited the National Hospital of Sri Lanka to review care for injured patients, including ICU cases, as investigations expand. Accountability Push: Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara says three probes are underway (police, a retired-judge commission, and an internal prison review) to identify security lapses and prevent a repeat. Dengue Watch: GMOA warns actual dengue infections may be far higher than official counts, citing many unreported cases. Prevention Drive: The Navy joined Western Province dengue control efforts, removing 1,231 mosquito breeding sites across dozens of locations and running public awareness programmes. Healthcare Quality: Hemas Hospitals & Laboratory Chain won 30 national quality awards at NCQP 2026, highlighting patient safety and service improvements. Digital Health Access (Indirect): Dialog Pay launched integrated digital payments via MyDialog, aiming to expand cashless use across sectors including healthcare providers.

Prison Health & Safety: Sri Lanka’s deadliest prison riot in years has left 27 dead (including 7 prison officers) at Negombo Prison, with 77 more treated in hospitals after clashes between rival drug-linked inmate groups; authorities say the situation is under control, but CID and CCD have launched investigations and a retired-judge commission is also probing possible security lapses, overcrowding, and how weapons were accessed. Dengue Watch: The GMOA warns Sri Lanka may be entering the early stages of a major dengue outbreak, saying official counts likely miss many home-treated cases; reported dengue totals have surged past 61,000, with Western Province hospitals under mounting pressure. Health System Capacity: Doctors report emergency care needs are rising, including surgeries for severely injured patients from the prison incident, highlighting strain across local facilities.

Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka has logged 61,060 dengue cases in 2026, with 2,604 new infections in the last 24 hours, and Western Province remains the hardest hit (32,054 cases). Hospitals there are reaching full capacity as health authorities roll out a three-phase response to protect patients and reduce fatalities. Prison Health Crisis: Deadly clashes at Negombo Prison have killed at least 23–26 people (including guards) and left more than 100 injured, with victims rushed to Negombo Hospital and Colombo National Hospital; authorities say investigations are underway and inmate transfers are being arranged to ease tensions. Care & Safety: A separate report highlights how a caregiver in a residential facility was exposed after an elderly woman with dementia disclosed sexual abuse—raising urgent questions about safeguarding and oversight in long-term care.

Prison Violence in Negombo: Sri Lanka’s Negombo Prison saw deadly clashes between rival inmate groups, with reports of at least 25 deaths and about 100 injuries, including prison officers; gunshots were heard as police and security forces moved in, and authorities began transferring inmates to other prisons while some critically injured were sent to the National Hospital in Colombo. Dengue Warning for Hospitals: The GMOA says the real dengue burden may be far higher than official counts, as many patients stay home and self-medicate; meanwhile, the National Dengue Control Unit reported 61,060 cases so far this year, with Western Province carrying over half, and hospitals in the region reaching capacity. Anti-Dengue Push: A “Stop Dengue Now” national campaign kicked off with intensified action in Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara, urging year-round prevention as cases keep rising. Health System Strain Signals: With dengue surging and hospital pressure mounting, officials say short-term emergency measures are being prioritised to prevent deaths as infections continue to climb.

New Medical Training Capacity: Saudi Fund for Development (about US$50m) and Sri Lanka inaugurated a Faculty of Medicine at Sabaragamuwa University, with modern labs, para-clinical teaching spaces and a library—aimed at expanding local medical education and strengthening the healthcare workforce. Dengue Response Push: A 24/7 hotline (0117 966 366) now lets the public report mosquito-breeding sites, linked to the National Health Emergency Operations Centre, as dengue control intensifies; officials cite 59,638 cases and 39 deaths so far this year. Western Province Operations: Under the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, a targeted dengue prevention drive is underway across 23 high-risk zones in the Western Province, with health authorities, tri-forces, police and local bodies coordinating clean-ups and community awareness. Prison Violence & Health Impact: Negombo Prison saw a deadly clash leading to two deaths and 25+ injuries, with critical cases transferred for specialised treatment. Aging & Dementia: A psychiatric specialist warns Sri Lanka’s rising elderly population is driving more dementia reports, urging early testing and treatment—especially for Alzheimer’s. Nutrition Policy: Sri Lanka amended sugar color-code labeling rules for liquid foods, lowering the red logo threshold to 8g sugar per 100ml and adjusting amber/green ranges. Vision Care Access: HelpAge plans 3,000 free cataract surgeries before year-end, citing cataract as a major cause of vision loss among people over 60.

Dengue Surge & Response: Sri Lanka has recorded 59,638 confirmed dengue cases so far in 2025, with June the worst month (21,546 cases) and July already rising fast; the Western Province is hardest hit (31,249 cases). Authorities are launching a special dengue prevention and eradication drive from today (5) across 23 high-risk zones in the Western Province, with cleaning campaigns, drainage clearing, mosquito-breeding site destruction, and community awareness led by health bodies and the tri-forces. Dementia & Alzheimer’s: A psychiatric specialist warns that Sri Lanka’s rapidly growing elderly population is driving more reported dementia cases, with Alzheimer’s being a major form; early testing and early treatment are urged. Cataract Care Access: HelpAge says it will perform 3,000 free cataract surgeries before the end of 2026, citing high cataract prevalence among people over 60 and long waiting lists in government hospitals. Rabies Prevention Push: The Cabinet has approved a Rabies Eradication and Dog Registration Bill to strengthen dog control, make dog rabies vaccination mandatory, and cut the heavy health-budget burden from animal-bite cases. Road Safety Warning: Police plan stricter action against pedestrians using headphones/earphones while walking on roads, as accidents and deaths continue to rise. Sugar Label Rules Updated: Sri Lanka amends colour-code sugar labelling for liquid foods, lowering the red logo threshold to 8g sugar per 100ml and setting amber/green ranges accordingly. Medical Education Investment: A new Faculty Complex at Sabaragamuwa University is underway with major government and partner funding, including Saudi support, to expand medical education infrastructure.

Dengue Response: Sri Lanka is stepping up dengue prevention with a special Clean Sri Lanka operation starting tomorrow (5) across 23 high-risk dengue zones in the Western Province, with health authorities, Tri-Forces, police, district and divisional secretariats, local government and community groups joining cleaning drives, drainage clearing, mosquito-breeding site destruction and public awareness. Dengue Warning: Health authorities report dengue is spreading among children, with doctors warning about rare but serious complications after recovery, and urging parents to prevent bites (especially 5–7pm) and watch for persistent fever beyond the usual recovery period. Public Health Pressure: Dengue cases have reached 57,668 with 36 deaths, and the Western Province remains the worst affected, prompting intensified vector control and a renewed call for source reduction. Medical Access: HelpAge says it will carry out 3,000 free cataract surgeries before the end of 2026, citing high cataract prevalence among people over 60 and the delays many face even when government surgery is available. Food & Health Policy: Sri Lanka amended sugar color-code label rules for liquid foods, lowering the red label threshold to 8g sugar per 100ml and setting amber/green ranges for clearer consumer guidance. Animal Bite Safety: A Rabies Eradication and Dog Registration Bill is moving forward, aiming to strengthen dog vaccination and registration and reduce rabies deaths by 2030. Health Education Investment: A major joint funding push is backing the Sabaragamuwa Medical Faculty development, including Rs. 2,876 million from the government and a Saudi Fund for Development contribution of US$50 million.