The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed deep concern over the death of Sathsara Nimesh, who died while in the custody of the Welikada Police on April 2. The BASL has called for an immediate and impartial investigation into the incident.
In a statement issued on April 5, the BASL raised alarm over reports indicating that the young man had sustained fatal injuries while in custody, with claims suggesting that the injuries were self-inflicted.
Emphasizing the importance of ensuring due process, the BASL warned that repeated incidents of custodial deaths severely undermine public confidence in law enforcement and the administration of justice.
The Association also criticized the slow response by authorities in taking effective measures to prevent such incidents and urged the implementation of a policy that ensures swift action in cases of custodial deaths.
Furthermore, the BASL stated its willingness to support efforts aimed at improving accountability and preventing abuse within the Police Department.
Meanwhile, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an investigation into the death, which occurred after the suspect was arrested on April 1 for allegedly entering a house in the Nawala area.
According to the Police Media Unit, the CID began investigating the conduct of the officers involved on April 4, following orders issued by the Acting Inspector General of Police