The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has called for an immediate, impartial and comprehensive investigation into the death of a 29-year-old individual, who died while in the custody of the Homagama Police following his arrest in connection with a drug-related investigation.

In a statement expressing grave concern over the incident, the BASL urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death are independently established and that all relevant evidence is preserved and examined.

According to the statement, family members who visited the Homagama Police Station on October 25, , to inquire about his condition reportedly observed physical injuries which, in their view, indicated that he had been severely assaulted.

However, the Police Spokesman has stated that the suspect developed a sudden illness during an operation and died following admission to hospital.

The BASL said the differing accounts and concerns raised over the incident must be subjected to a transparent and credible investigation, stressing that no reasonable questions should remain unanswered.

The association emphasized that the State has a fundamental duty to safeguard the life, health and bodily integrity of every person in its custody. It added that allegations of custodial violence or ill-treatment must be treated with the utmost seriousness and, if substantiated, addressed in accordance with the law.

Referring to Article 13(4) of the Constitution and the jurisprudence of the higher judiciary, the BASL underscored the obligation of law enforcement authorities to respect the rights and dignity of persons in custody.

The statement also noted that the Homagama Magistrate’s Court had ordered a post-mortem examination and that a preliminary inquiry had been initiated under the direction of the Homagama Assistant Superintendent of Police.

The BASL stressed that accountability must follow if wrongdoing is established through a proper investigation, while emphasizing the importance of a fair, independent and credible process to determine the facts.

The association condemned any act of custodial violence or unlawful deprivation of life, if established, and said it would take further steps if necessary. It also pledged to keep its membership and the general public informed of developments.