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Senior DIG withdraws from case filed by Upul Jayasuriya
Aug 12, 201412:59 PM
Senior DIG Anura Senanayake apprised the Court that he has withdrawn from the investigations with respect to the case filed by the President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, Attorney-at-law, Upul Jayasuriya, due to a personal issue.
The DIG made the observation in the presence of Colombo Chief Magistrate Gihan Piliapitiya, yesterday. He went on saying that in written he has informed to the IGP, on this regard, and the current investigations are being carried out under orders from Senior DIG Gamini Nawarathna.
DIG Senanayake was summoned to the Court in order to explain as to why the police cannot provide police security to the Attorney-at-law. Two complaints have been lodged with the police by Upul Jayasuriya stating that his life is in danger, as he was followed by two unidentified persons on two occasions, last month.
The DIG pointed out that the Police Department is not empowered to provide its officers for personal security. He said that if needed, then the police will seek advice from the Secretary of the Ministry of Law and Order, who is currently overseas, as this is his responsibility to take actions.
DIG Senanayake said that some 27 police officers including Police Intelligence officers have already deployed to provide security to the Bar Association President, in civvies.
However, defence lawyers argued that the police have to provide security to a person whose life is threatened, if a genuine request is made, according to Section 22 of the Police Ordinance.
The case will be heard again on 25 August.
