Colombo Additional Magistrate Keminda Perera yesterday (9) ordered the exhumation of the body of Sathsara Nimesh, a youth from Meegahakivula, Badulla, who died while in Welikada Police custody. The Magistrate directed that a full post-mortem examination be conducted by a board of three specialist doctors, and the report submitted to the Colombo Magistrate’s Court.
The decision follows a motion filed by the mother of the deceased, who expressed doubts over the circumstances of her son’s death and the initial post-mortem examination. Attorney-at-Law Lakshan Dias, appearing for the aggrieved party, argued that the mother had not been given an opportunity to present her evidence and cited Section 373 of the Criminal Procedure Code to request a fresh examination.
Attorney Senaka Perera, also appearing for the family, told the court that the young man had informed his mother of being assaulted prior to his death. The mother reportedly discovered her son had died only when she brought food to the police station. An affidavit containing this information was also submitted to the court.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), now in charge of the case on the directive of the Acting Inspector General of Police, confirmed that investigations are underway. These include recording witness statements and analyzing CCTV footage. Blood samples and body parts of the deceased have also been sent to the Government Analyst for further examination.
The CID did not oppose the request for a new post-mortem. After hearing all parties, the Magistrate issued the order and scheduled the next court date for April 30, instructing that an update on the investigation be presented.
A silent protest was held outside the Colombo Magistrate’s Court during the hearing, demanding an independent investigation. The demonstration saw participation from the victim’s relatives and concerned citizens.