The Welikada Prison (also known as the Magazine Prison) is a maximum-security prison and the largest prison in Sri Lanka. It was built in 1841 by the British colonial government under Governor Campbell. The prison covers an area of 48 acre. It is overcrowded with about 1700 detainees exceeding the actual number that could be accommodated. The prison also has a gallows (unused since 1959) and its own hospital. The prison is administered by the Department of Prisons. Following the attempted military coup in 1962, the arrested military and police officers were remanded pending trial in a special section at Welikada prison called the Magazine Section. To guard these officers, a special security detachment called the composite guard was selected from the Ceylon Light Infantry, with Major A Hulangamuwa in charge.

2012 Prison riot

In November 2012, 27 people died in clashes between inmates and prison guards.

Core functions

Relocation

It is proposed to relocate the prison to Horana by 2024. The existing complex will be opened for investments.

Notable inmates

Scouting

The world's first prison Scout Group registered by Imperial Scout Headquarters started at Welikada Prison in 1926.