- Cites inadequate ventilation
- Quizzes CID, detainees
The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) said that it is continuing investigations into the complaint alleging that former State Intelligence Service Director, Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay was subjected to various forms of mistreatment while in custody.
HRCSL Commissioner/Member, Nimal G. Punchihewa stated that statements from officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) were recorded again yesterday (16) as part of the ongoing inquiry. Statements have also been recorded from other detainees held in cells near Sallay, as well as from CID officers. Further statements from CID personnel are expected to be obtained as the investigation continues.
Sallay was arrested on 25 February in connection with investigations relating to the Easter Sunday attacks.
The complaint was lodged with the HRCSL by relatives of Sallay, alleging that he was subjected to mistreatment while being held in CID custody.
According to reports, HRCSL has conducted a special inspection of the detention cell where Sallay was being held. The inspection found that he had been detained in a standard CID cell, where several basic deficiencies were observed, including inadequate ventilation. The HRCSL said that it has informed CID officials of the shortcomings identified during the inspection.
HRCSL also noted that it is monitoring the medical care being provided to Sallay, who is currently receiving treatment in hospital.
Meanwhile, the Citizens of the People's Struggle organisation has submitted a letter to the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights (HR), requesting the urgent deployment of a special mission of the visiting UN Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture (SPT) to investigate the serious allegations of torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment reportedly inflicted upon Sallay and the conditions of detention under the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA).
“Allegations have emerged that he has been subjected to severe mistreatment and torture while in State custody. These allegations raise concerns regarding compliance with obligations under international HR law. Persistent allegations of torture and ill-treatment in Police stations, detention facilities and prisons continue. Judgments of the Supreme Court concerning violations of Fundamental Rights have further highlighted concerns regarding custodial abuse and the treatment of detainees. Sallay has commenced a hunger strike in protest against his alleged treatment in detention.
In the meantime, Cabinet Spokesperson and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing held yesterday (16), said Sallay should fully cooperate with ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks by disclosing all relevant information in his possession.
Dr. Jayatissa stated that as a former Intelligence and Military officer, Sallay should provide investigators with any information that could assist the inquiry. He said that withholding information would serve no purpose and urged full cooperation with the law enforcement authorities.
“The best thing that Sallay can do is to disclose what he knows about the Easter Sunday attacks and assist the security authorities. There is no point in hiding information,” he said. Responding to questions regarding Sallay’s detention, he said that no special prison cell or separate facilities had been provided for him, and that standard procedures applicable to detainees held under detention orders are being followed.
However, he noted that necessary medical and humanitarian assistance is being provided, adding that relatives are permitted to visit and provide food, while medical treatment is offered without delay when required. Dr. Jayatissa further stated that Sallay is being held under standard detention arrangements similar to those applied in previous cases and emphasised that the health and security authorities are closely monitoring his condition and welfare.