The Free Lawyers organisation claimed that although 25 coal shipments had originally been planned to ensure an uninterrupted supply for the Lakvijaya Power Plant in Norochcholai until 2 September, only 22 vessels have been unloaded so far, with one vessel leaving Sri Lankan waters without discharging its cargo and another still remaining at anchor. Co-Convenors of the organisation, President's Counsel Maithri Gunaratne and attorney Athula de Silva alleged that the vessel 'Ana Ocean', which had been brought to Sri Lanka under an emergency procurement arrangement at a price of United States Dollars 142 per metric tonne, had departed for Visakhapatnam, India, on Tuesday (16), without unloading its coal cargo. They said that it was the second coal vessel to leave Norochcholai without discharging its shipment. According to the organisation, the 'YASA SUN', which arrived off Puttalam on 2 May, has also remained anchored without unloading its cargo. They further claimed that they had previously raised concerns over the quality of the coal carried by both the 'MV JOSCO YONGZHOU' and the 'Ana Ocean', alleging that the ash content and several other quality indicators failed to meet the required standards. It was also alleged that despite concerns over the quality of the cargo, the coal carried by the MV JOSCO YONGZHOU was unloaded during the Vesak weekend. The organisation further claimed that after State officials had refused to accept the cargo carried by the Ana Ocean, its supplier had written to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on 9 June, seeking permission to unload the shipment after paying a penalty. The organisation maintained that although the Ana Ocean shipment had been rejected, making payments for the coal already unloaded from the MV JOSCO YONGZHOU would amount to fraud and corruption. They claimed that although tenders had been awarded to two companies to supply 25 coal shipments, one vessel under the main tender had later been cancelled by the Government. They said that the authorities had previously stated that coal stocks would be sufficient to maintain operations until 2 September if all scheduled shipments arrived on time. However, they claimed that existing reserves could be exhausted around 16 days earlier than anticipated. According to the organisation, three additional coal shipments would now have to be unloaded to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the Norochcholai Power Plant until 2 September. It added that no final decision had yet been taken regarding the unloading of the YASA SUN, which remains within Sri Lankan waters. The organisation also alleged that payments to coal suppliers had been suspended and questioned whether the delay was linked to a shortage of foreign exchange or financial difficulties faced by the Treasury. It called on the relevant authorities to clarify the situation. Multiple attempts to contact Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka and Deputy subject Minister Akram Ilyas proved futile.&nbsp;

Coal supply until 2 September: Lawyers group queries fate of 3 shipments

<ul><li>Dy Finance Minister claims highest since 2021</li></ul> Deputy Finance and Planning Minister Dr Anil Jayantha Fernando said Sri Lanka recorded a 5.1 per cent economic growth in the first quarter of this year, with the industrial sector contributing the most to the expansion despite setbacks in agriculture caused by cyclone Ditwah. Commenting on the latest economic growth figures released by the Census and Statistics Department during a media briefing yesterday (17), he said that the performance demonstrated that the economy had moved beyond stabilisation and is now laying the foundation for sustained growth and development. He said that the country had faced several challenges during the period, including the impact of Ditwah and the economic shock created by the conflict in the Middle East (ME). At the same time, he claimed that various groups had continuously attempted to create fear in society by suggesting that the economy is on the verge of another crisis. "We have heard predictions since this Government took office that the economy would collapse today or tomorrow. The economic data clearly shows that those claims are unfounded," he said. According to him, the 5.1 per cent growth recorded in the first quarter is the highest first-quarter growth rate since 2021 and represents a significant achievement considering both domestic and external challenges. He said that the industrial, services and agricultural sectors all contributed to economic growth, with the industrial sector recording the strongest performance at 7.2 per cent. Within the industrial sector, mining and quarrying grew by 19.5 per cent, construction by 16.3 per cent, water supply by 11.4 per cent, and electricity generation by 7.5 per cent. Dr Fernando acknowledged that the agricultural sector had recorded comparatively lower growth due to the damage caused by Ditwah. He noted that tea, livestock production and paddy cultivation contracted during the period, although several other agricultural activities posted positive growth. Coconut cultivation expanded by 64.8 per cent, while vegetable production grew by 3.6 per cent. He said that the services sector also performed strongly, with insurance services recording the highest growth at 22 per cent, followed by information technology (IT) at 16.1 per cent, financial services at 12.5 per cent, accommodation and food and beverage (F&amp;B) services at 5.4 per cent, and transportation services at 3.6 per cent. He attributed the overall economic performance to the Government's policy decisions and prudent financial management in the face of natural disasters and external shocks. He said that the Government had maintained strong revenue collection throughout last year (2025), enabling it to build a substantial financial buffer. As a result, he said that an additional Rs. 500 billion had been allocated through supplementary estimates to meet unforeseen expenditure without reducing funds already allocated under the Budget. He noted that some analysts had forecast economic growth of around 3%, expecting the economy to slow following Ditwah. Instead, he said that the Government had increased spending to support the affected communities and maintain economic activity. He added that financial assistance had been provided for families affected by the loss of life and property, crop damage, the needs of schoolchildren, damaged businesses, and the restoration of infrastructure, including roads and railway lines. He further said that the Government had also allocated an additional Rs. 100 billion to address the economic impact of the conflict in the ME. "When crises emerged, we managed them without allowing the economy to weaken and at the same time provided relief to the people. The results of those decisions are reflected in the economic growth figures that we see today," he said.He said that the Government remains highly positive and optimistic that Sri Lanka will continue its current economic trajectory as planned. He said that the first-quarter economic growth rate of 5.1% indicates that the country is moving along the expected path towards achieving the medium-term target of inclusive and sustainable economic growth of 7%. However, he clarified that this does not mean that Sri Lanka is expected to achieve 7% economic growth in 2026, as it is a medium-term target. He said that gradual growth improvements, such as 5.1% and 5.5%, would contribute towards maintaining the planned economic trajectory. Dr Fernando said that achieving this target is essential to addressing the long-standing issue of poverty, developing the economy, reducing income inequality, and improving living standards for everyone.&nbsp;

5.1% econ growth in 2026 1Q

The Police have launched an investigation following the discovery of a body of a female inside a car near the Teldeniya Base Hospital. The investigation was initiated based on information received by the Police yesterday afternoon (17). A Magisterial inquiry into the incident is scheduled to be conducted shortly.Indian with SL citizenship nabbed for job fraud A 32-year-old individual has been arrested in connection with an alleged fraud involving Rs &nbsp;4.99 million after promising to secure overseas employment for a victim. The investigation was launched by the Kilinochchi Divisional Special Crime Investigation Unit following a complaint lodged with the Kilinochchi Police Station. The suspect had allegedly obtained money from the complainant under the pretext of arranging a job in a foreign country. Officers arrested the suspect, an Indian national who has acquired Sri Lankan citizenship. The suspect, a resident of Kilinochchi, is expected to face further legal proceedings.Gr. 10 student nabbed for organised drug trafficking Elsewhere, a 15-year-old school student has been arrested over his alleged involvement in a narcotics distribution network said to be operated under the direction of a known organised crime figure identified as Saman Kolla. The suspect was taken into custody on Monday (15) in Madampe, Ambalangoda, during a Police operation based on intelligence received by officers. A stock of narcotics valued at around Rs &nbsp;500,000 was also seized at the time of the arrest. An examination of the suspect’s mobile phone uncovered conversations with Saman Kolla, along with instructions allegedly issued by him. Investigations further revealed details of multiple locations where drug packets had been concealed, reportedly based on mobile phone directions used for coordination. The suspect is believed to have stored and distributed narcotics according to instructions received via mobile communication, including directions on where to collect and hide drug consignments. The suspect is a Grade 10 student of a school within the Ambalangoda Education Zone. He was scheduled to be produced before the Balapitiya Magistrate’s Court (MC) on Tuesday (16).5 arrested over attempted sale of rare stone Five individuals have been arrested by the Pulmoddai Police for allegedly attempting to sell a rare stone believed to have possible historical or archaeological significance for Rs &nbsp;20 million. The suspects were taken into custody following a raid carried out on Monday in Pulmoddai, based on a tip-off received by officeRs &nbsp;The arrested suspects, aged between 29 and 57, are residents of Puliyankulam, Echchalampattu and Trincomalee. The stone in question has been handed over to the relevant departments for further examination to determine its authenticity and archaeological value. 4 suspects re-remanded in connection with fatal road accident A total of four suspects arrested in connection with the fatal road accident near the Meegoda Junction on Vesak Day, which claimed six lives, has been further remanded. The suspects were produced before the Homagama MC on Tuesday, where Magistrate Rajindra Jayasuriya ordered that the group be further remanded until 30 June. The suspects include the alleged owner of the cab, a resident of Piliyandala, the driver of the cab and two others &nbsp;During the Court proceedings, it was revealed that compensation of Rs 100,000 has been arranged for the family of one of the deceased, while the defense has also agreed to pay Rs &nbsp;100,000 each to the families of the remaining five victims. The incident had occurred along the Avissawella–Colombo High Level Road within the Meegoda Police Division when a cab reportedly drove into a group of people waiting in line at a Dansala. Six persons were killed and seven others sustained serious injuries in the crash.CM's former private secretary arrested by CIABOC A former private secretary to the former Southern Province Chief Minister (CM) Shan Wijayalal De Silva was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over allegations of corruption, causing a loss of Rs 16.5 million to the Government. The arrest was made in connection with a procurement-related investigation involving the purchase of chairs for voluntary organisations in the Southern Province under a Provincial development programme. Investigators allege that the procurement process was carried out in violation of standard procedures, with a specific manufacturer being selected, thereby conferring an undue advantage and resulting in a financial loss to the State. The purchases were reportedly made through the Southern Provincial Development Authority, and the chairs were distributed under Provincial Councilor's allocations across the three Districts in the Province. In total, 16,361 chairs were allegedly procured and distributed to 54 Provincial Councilors for onward delivery to homes and offices. The suspect was scheduled to be produced before the Colombo Chief MC.&nbsp;Court wants probes into MP and PC expedited The Embilipitiya Chief MC on Monday ordered the Police to expedite investigations and record witness statements in two related cases connected to a dispute arising from a cannabis raid in Suriyakanda involving a National People's Power Government Parliamentarian Shantha Pathma Kumara Subasingha and a suspended Police Constable (PC). The cases involve proceedings filed by the Police against the suspended PC Susantha Hettiarachchi, as well as a counter case filed by the Constable against the Ratnapura District MP Kumara, following an alleged altercation linked to the incident. When the matter was taken up before Chief Magistrate R M Malan Ishara Jayasuriya, the Court directed the Police to promptly record evidence in the case against Kumara, and, if necessary, arrest any identified suspects and produce them before Court at the next hearing. The Court was informed that the case against the PC, which includes allegations of obstruction and criminal intimidation, had previously been referred to the Mediation Board. However, it was reported that no settlement had been reached between the parties. Counsel appearing for the suspended PC told the Court that his client was arrested within hours of being hospitalised following the incident, while no suspects have been questioned or arrested in the counter case involving Kumara, despite several months having passed. He also raised concerns over the progress of the investigation.&nbsp;Following submissions, the Magistrate ordered the Police to complete the recording of statements and submit a comprehensive report by 26 October, while taking steps to arrest any suspects identified during the investigation. The Human Rights Commission had directed the Police to reinstate the suspended PC following its inquiry. However, the directive has not yet been implemented. The cases have been fixed for further hearing on 2 November and 20 December.

Crime: Woman found dead in car 

<ul><li>Complaint mgt digital/mobile platform application connects BFE, Consular Affairs, SL missions/posts </li></ul> The Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry, together with the Bureau of Foreign Employment (BFE) and&nbsp;the International Labour Organisation, on Monday (15),&nbsp;launched LankaKonect, &nbsp;a complaint management application designed to strengthen protection, improve complaint management, and enhance access to support services for Sri Lankan migrant workers worldwide. Technical support was provided by the Telecom. The LankaKonect mobile application provides migrant workers with a centralised and user-friendly digital platform to submit complaints and requests for assistance, monitor the progress of their cases, and access essential information and support services, regardless of their country of employment. The application addresses a longstanding gap in migrant worker protection by digitally integrating the complaint management processes of the BFE, the Ministry’s Consular Affairs Division, and Sri Lankan Missions and Posts abroad. This integrated platform enhances institutional coordination, facilitates centralised case management and monitoring, and enables more timely, efficient, and coordinated responses to complaints and welfare concerns raised by Sri Lankan migrant workers overseas. The application provides access to essential information and services for Sri Lankans living overseas for employment, education, and residential purposes, enabling them to remain connected with Government institutions throughout their migration journey.It is available free of charge on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. &nbsp;

 ‘LankaKonect’ launched for migrant workers

The Catholic Church has clarified that Colombo Archbishop, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith did not request the appointment of the Public Security Ministry Secretary Ravi Seneviratne or the Criminal Investigation Department Director Shani Abeysekara to their current positions.&nbsp;The statement was made by the media spokesperson for the Colombo Archdiocese, Cyril Gamini Fernando during a press briefing held yesterday (17), in response to questions raised regarding remarks made in Parliament by Minister Bimal Rathnayake. He stated that neither Cardinal Ranjith nor the Catholic Church had ever made any such request for the appointments of the two officials. Further, the Church has denied social media claims suggesting that Cardinal Ranjith had prior knowledge of the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, calling the allegations completely false and baseless. In a statement issued to the media, Fernando said that the claims currently circulating online originated from remarks made by former Minister Harin Fernando before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Easter attacks in 2020. The statement noted that those allegations were previously refuted in a media release issued on 19 September 2020, by three Auxiliary Bishops of the Archdiocese. It further emphasised that recent social media posts repeating the claim that the Cardinal had prior knowledge of the attacks have no factual basis and are entirely misleading. The Church also dismissed related assertions that the security agencies had prior information about the attacks which was communicated to the Cardinal, describing such suggestions as false. According to the statement, the circulation of such claims appears aimed at undermining ongoing efforts to uncover the truth behind the Easter Sunday attacks and obstruct investigations. The Church has urged the general public to refrain from sharing or believing unverified information circulating on social media. Gamini Fernando also alleged that false information and defamatory claims are being circulated with the intention of obstructing ongoing investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks, urging the public not to be misled by unverified social media content.

Easter attacks probe: Church denies requesting Shani, Ravi K 

<ul><li>Criminal networks favour SL due to ease of getting tourist visas and limited&nbsp;regulation on SIM cards and internet connections</li></ul>&nbsp;Sri Lanka is emerging as a hub for transnational cybercrime, after a crackdown in South-East Asia (SEA) pushed Chinese-run criminal networks to relocate their vast scam operations.Police Media Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police and attorney Fredrick U. Wootler said that the country is witnessing an “alarming increase of cybercrimes” perpetrated by people entering the country as tourists, and then illegally setting up scam operations targeting people across the world.Authorities have carried out more than a dozen raids on alleged scam operations in the country since the beginning of the year (2026), arresting and deporting almost 700 foreigners accused of involvement.On 11 June, the Police carried out its latest raid in the commercial capital Colombo where they detained 18 Chinese citizens and one from Laos. At the site of the raid, the scammers had left behind dozens of fake documents, from a falsified legal certification, fake US Treasury documents and fake company registration, stating that their company was worth US $ 10 billion. An officer from the Crime Investigation Bureau who carried out the raid said that they had also discovered 62 passports, mostly for Chinese nationals. “They had phones, laptops, pen drives, random-access memories, a processor, a stamp to forge documents, and so many forged documents. One certificate, which we found was also forged to show that they were a business registered in the US, was framed and hung on the wall,” he said.The majority of those arrested and deported for involvement in scams this year have been Chinese citizens, people from Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Laos, the Philippines, Malaysia and Myanmar have also been detained in raids. The Police said that all those arrested had come to Sri Lanka on tourist visas.The transnational scam industry that flourished in SEA over the past decade has become one of the largest organised-crime enterprises in the world. It is mostly run by Chinese gangs and staffed by hundreds of thousands of workers, many trafficked or coerced into the job. From vast fortified compounds in Cambodia and Myanmar, large scale fraud factories orchestrate operations that run from romance scams and crypto fraud, to online gambling and money laundering on a global scale. Yet, as political pressure has grown on host countries in SEA, scam compounds have faced a significant crackdown from the authorities, pushing the Chinese operatives and crime syndicates to find new locations to set up operations.Sri Lanka has emerged as a favoured new destination, due to the ease in getting tourist visas and the newly introduced “digital nomad” visas. There is also limited regulation on subscriber identity module (SIM) cards and internet connections, as well as a wide availability of offices and hotels to rent for a low price. Sri Lanka’s mechanisms to go after cybercrime are seen as limited. The current modus operandi is mostly to deport foreigners found carrying out cybercrimes, rather than prosecuting them.Cybercrime researcher and author of Scam: Inside SEA’s Cybercrime Compounds, Mark Bo said that he had noticed a shift in operations towards Sri Lanka starting two years ago, as it began to be mentioned in posts on the messaging app Telegram, as well as in recruitment drives. “After the crackdown really ramped up in Cambodia, I saw a lot more posts on Telegram channels of people saying that they were moving to Sri Lanka,” said Bo. “There’s clearly been some kind of transplanting of the exact same set-up there. It shows the challenge of controlling the industry because one of its defining characteristics is how mobile and how adaptable it can be.”The operations have been accelerating beyond the control of the authorities. Businessmen in Colombo complained that the rents for office spaces had more than doubled in some complexes, due to the surge in demand and high prices paid by groups coming in from China.Rather than setting up visible compounds, Police found that these operations tried to avoid detection by working in small groups of five people, which rotate around different hotels, apartments and offices every three months. The officer said that the operations that they had busted recently were clearly backed by huge sums of money, with eight floors of an apartment building rented out in one incident.Superintendent of Police, Kamal Ariyawansa confirmed that it was a Chinese crime syndicate behind the operation, which was attempting to scam American victims into investing in a fake US company.The Chinese embassy in Colombo has publicly acknowledged the involvement of its citizens in telephone fraud gangs, which they said had moved to Sri Lanka after the crackdown in SEA. “Cases like these pose immense harm, and the Chinese Embassy provides full support to Sri Lankan law enforcement agencies in resolutely cracking down on suspects,” they said.The Guardian

Scam networks relocate from SEA:  SL sees alarming rise in cybercrime 

<ul><li>Free Lawyers Association and Dinana Dakuna collective slam action against Opposition leaders, activists </li></ul> The Free Lawyers Association has claimed that the Criminal Investigation Department's (CID) move to investigate several Opposition political leaders and activists over alleged contempt of court amounts to an attempt to restrict and suppress the freedom of expression and intimidate Government critics. Issuing a statement, the organisation criticised and condemned the CID's decision to act against former Ministers Wimal Weerawansa and attorney Udaya Gammanpila, Parliamentarian and Sarvajana Balaya Leader and attorney Dilith Jayaweera, and political activists Mahinda Pathirana, Asanka Nawarathne and Sugeeshwara Bandara. In the statement, which was shared with The Daily Morning by the Association's Chief Executive Officer and former Governor Rajith Keethi Tennakoon, they stated that it is extremely rare and unusual in Sri Lanka's history for a Magistrate's Court to be called upon to consider matters involving the expression of views by political leaders and activists in a single case, deeming the development as a clear attempt at political repression and suppression. Referring to the Contempt of Court, Tribunal or Institution Act, No. 8 of 2024, the Association claimed that the Legislation does not provide legal authority for the Police to institute or pursue and maintain independent contempt of court proceedings on behalf of the Judiciary. It charged that misusing Police powers to silence political figures and dissent under the guise of contempt of court would be inconsistent with democratic principles. The Association further maintained that freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under Article 14(1)(a) of the Constitution and that political leaders and activists have the right to express their political views without fear of criminal investigation. It also referred to the freedom of thought and conscience protected under Article 10, stating that these rights cannot be undermined by partisan actions within the Police service. The statement follows the CID informing the Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court via a submission on Monday (15) that it had launched an investigation into statements allegedly made through the electronic media which, the investigators claimed, could affect, obstruct and interfere with ongoing investigations and processes involving former State Intelligence Service Director, Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay, who is currently in remand custody, and could amount to contempt of court. The CID also sought notices requiring these six individuals to appear before Court on 1 July. However, the Magistrate observed that such summons were not necessary at this stage and further noted that, as the matter falls under the said Act, any future legal action should follow the appropriate legal process and, if necessary, be initiated before the Court of Appeal.The statement further referred to the appointment of the current CID Director, alleging political considerations in the process and claiming that law enforcement agencies are being used to target Government critics.Meanwhile, the ‘Dinana Dakuna’ collective has condemned what it describes as politically motivated interference by the Police and the CID in matters related to contempt of court allegations, claiming that such actions are being used to restrict the freedom of expression. In a statement issued by the collective’s Leadership Board and Executive Committee, spokesperson, attorney Shiral Lakthilaka said that the organisation expresses opposition to what it terms the targeting of citizens’ speech and conscience rights under the guise of contempt of court proceedings. The statement refers to ongoing Police and CID action involving several individuals, including Weerawansa, Gammanpila, Jayaweera, Pathirana, Nawaratne and Bandara, and alleges that the process amounts to an attempt to suppress public criticism. The collective argued that the said Act does not provide legal authority for the Police to initiate or pursue contempt proceedings and claimed that the law is being misused to curtail dissent. It further alleged that recent CID actions are aimed at preventing the criticism of senior law enforcement officials and represent an improper use of legal provisions intended to safeguard judicial authority. According to the statement, such developments raise concerns over the politicisation of law enforcement and the use of Police powers to intimidate citizens, activists, and journalists. The Group also emphasised that freedom of expression and freedom of thought are protected under Articles 14(1)(a) and 10, and warned that restricting these rights undermines democratic governance. The collective called for an immediate halt to what it described as politically driven suppression and urged the authorities to ensure the protection of fundamental rights and the equal application of the law.

CID’s contempt action deemed contemptuous 

Specialist Dr M K Sampath Indika Kumar assumed duties as the new Deputy Director General (DDG) of the Colombo National Hospital on Monday (15). He, along with eight other officials appointed to DDG positions, received their letters of appointment on 11 June from Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.&nbsp;

 Colombo National Hospital gets DDG

The Committee for Protecting the Rights of Prisoners (Guarantee) Limited (CPRP) has made a submission to the visiting United Nations (UN) Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture (SPT) on alleged systematic torture, institutionalised neglect, and the military control of detention. They noted that the Prisons Ordinance, No. 16 of 1877 is outdated in that it emphasises punitive measures rather than rehabilitative principles. “The system exhibits clear disparities, prisoners with privileged backgrounds, especially those with political connections, are frequently granted separate cells, superior meals, and enhanced care not provided to other inmates”. They also noted overcrowding and degrading conditions. “Inmates survive on an average of 1.2 square metres of floor space. In certain facilities, inmates are forced to stand all night or sleep in shifts, sometimes lying on paper placed over the scouting pan toilet. Extreme heat and a lack of good ventilation are common issues in all detainment centres and prisons. At night, when cells are locked, prisoners are forced to use plastic buckets and polythene bags to relieve themselves in the presence of others. At Welikada, more than 60 prisoners share a single flushless toilet, often resulting in overflows and foul odours. Many buildings are sinking or in a state of collapse”. They further alleged torture and ill-treatment. “Violence is an entrenched and systemic element of administration. Ragging and initiation rituals in certain detention facilities have become normalised, involving the severe beating of new entrants using guava sticks, sand-filled Polyvinyl Chloride pipes, cricket stumps, and electrified wires commonly referred to as 33,000 volts. Prisoners held in military detention centres are subjected to severe torture, including waterboarding (using petrol or water bags placed over the face to block inhalation and exhalation), being hung upside down, sensory deprivation through the use of coloured light bulbs, and various forms of sexual harassment and abuse. Both female and male detainees have reported undergoing medically harmful body cavity searches conducted by non-medical personnel. Even lawyers visiting detention centres such as Welisara and Boossa have been subjected to degrading and humiliating searches, including the forced removal of clothing”. Additionally, the Committee pointed out violations in disciplinary proceedings. “In the event of any conflict or incident within a prison, inmates are frequently denied a fair opportunity to present their side in disciplinary hearings. When such incidents occur between prison officers and prisoners, the officers themselves draft the charge sheet. The absence of an independent third party in this process results in significant injustice to the prisoners”. Health and medical conditions highlighted by the Committee include infectious diseases such as various skin diseases, the prevalence of tuberculosis, and psychiatric disorders which are also highly prevalent. “There is a severe shortage of medical personnel, with 35 nursing vacancies and only 57 medical officers available to serve nearly 30,000 inmates. Female inmates do not receive sanitary napkins from the prison authorities, forcing them to barter labour or other items for basic hygiene products. There are insufficient mental health programs in prisons. On food, water, and sanitation, the reality often falls short. Challenges include inadequate budgets, limited dietary diversity, poor storage facilities, and unhygienic kitchen conditions, resulting in substandard meals. Prisons face a severe hygiene crisis. The Mahara Prison is found to lack 48 toilets for a population of roughly 2,000 inmates. Due to extreme overcrowding, some prisoners are forced to sleep inside or next to toilets”. On corporal punishments, there are, according to the Committee, ongoing concerns regarding the risk of abuse, excessive punishment, and a lack of transparency. “Inmates face a lack of privacy during visits, often having to shout through wire mesh or glass in noisy environments while guards remain within earshot. Many prisoners are held far from their home districts, making visits economically impossible for poor families”. A critical concern for the Committee is the operation of prisons within military camps, specifically the Welisara Navy Camp and the Boossa Prison and the Mullaitivu Immigration Detention Camp (inside the Air Force). “These detention centres are controlled under the supervision of the Special Task Force (STF), the Air Force and the Navy. Detainees have alleged that they were intentionally hidden from visiting observing parties to conceal signs of torture. STF officers have been accused of the sexual harassment, questioning, following and frightening of female family members and visitors visiting detainees. There are also allegations that killings were planned from within Boossa with security personnel involvement. Attorneys and HR defenders have faced harassment when entering the Boossa and Welisara Prisons by military officers. Prisoners routinely face severe violations of their right to privacy and human dignity. Body cavity searches are conducted by non-medical staff, including military officers in certain facilities, without proper medical supervision or justification. These invasive procedures, along with frequent unwarranted searches of cells and personal belongings, constant surveillance, 24-hour closed-circuit television camera monitoring, and toilets without doors, leave prisoners with no personal privacy”. The Committee recommended that the SPT take action to: Conduct unannounced visits to detention centres; and Advocate for the Government - to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), amend the Ordinance in line with the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, use the Minnesota Protocol for all custodial deaths, increase HRCSL visits and appoint provincial committees, introduce body cameras to prison and other relevant officers, allow independent parties including local HR organisations to observe the situations of detention centres, impose bail conditions that are realistic to fulfill, and have alternatives to minor offences instead of prison, including for those unable to pay fines.Earlier, the Citizens of the People's Struggle organization, in a letter submitted to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (HR), requested the SPT to: Conduct an urgent and independent assessment of the detention conditions of the former State Intelligence Service Director, Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay; Investigate allegations of torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment; Visit and inspect relevant places of detention and custodial facilities; Receive testimony and information from detainees and other relevant persons; and Assess compliance with obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (CAT), the CAT, and other applicable international HR instruments,” the letter read.Further, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath informed the SPT that the Government is following a zero tolerance policy on torture, adding that to implement the same, constitutional, administrative and institutional steps have been taken and are being continuously progressed.

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5.1% econ growth in 2026 1Q

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Scam networks relocate from SE ...

CID’s contempt action deemed contemptuous

CID’s contempt action deemed c ...

Colombo National Hospital gets DDG

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5.1% econ growth in 2026 1Q

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Crime: Woman found dead in car

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Bringing the news paper to your fingertips

‘LankaKonect’ launched for migrant workers

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Easter attacks probe: Church denies requesting Shani, Ravi K

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Scam networks relocate from SEA: SL sees alarming rise in cybercrime

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