Sri Lanka has begun setting up a new prison in Mahamodera after the deadly Negombo jail riot. The move underlines chronic overcrowding and pressure for urgent prison reforms.

The wounded were rushed to the Negombo hospital, about 35km north of the capital Colombo, following overnight clashes between inmates from two drug gangs at the area's main prison, police said.

The wounded were rushed to the Negombo hospital, about 35km north of the capital Colombo, following overnight clashes between inmates from two drug gangs at the area's main prison, police said.