April 11 – A serious incident of alleged police brutality involving officers attached to the Weerawila Police Station has raised significant concerns over the abuse of power and violation of fundamental rights.
According to reports, the incident occurred on the night of April 11, when a group of young men from Tissamaharama were returning home after attending a musical event in Weerawila. The group was traveling in a safari jeep when they were stopped by police officers for inspection. The police alleged that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and proceeded to remove several passengers from the vehicle, taking the driver and the jeep into custody.
Concerned about their detained friend, several of the youths later arrived at the Weerawila Police Station in a separate vehicle. When two individuals approached the police entrance to inquire about the situation, they were reportedly verbally abused and chased away by officers present at the scene.
At that point, a police officer in civilian clothing allegedly approached the vehicle where the remaining youths were seated. Witnesses claim that the officer appeared to be intoxicated. One of the youths, identified as Sanjuka Ruhinsa from Yodakandiya, questioned how a police officer could be under the influence of alcohol while on duty.
This remark reportedly provoked the officer, who allegedly dragged the youth out of the vehicle and began assaulting him. Several other officers are said to have joined in the attack. One officer reportedly used a helmet to strike the victim, while another assaulted him with a baton.
As a result of the assault, the victim sustained serious injuries, including multiple head wounds, a split upper lip, loosened teeth, and torn earlobes. Despite his critical condition, requests to admit him to a hospital were reportedly denied.
Instead, the injured youth was taken into custody. It is further alleged that he was forced to sign a statement under duress, falsely admitting to disorderly conduct.
Speaking about the incident, Sanjuka Ruhinsa stated that the charges against him were fabricated in an attempt to justify the actions of the officers involved.
The incident raises serious concerns regarding violations of fundamental rights. Article 11 of the Constitution of Sri Lanka prohibits torture and any form of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Additionally, the Convention Against Torture Act No. 22 of 1994 criminalizes the infliction of physical harm on individuals in custody.
The role of the police is to uphold the law and ensure public safety. Allegations of officers consuming alcohol while on duty, along with the use of excessive force, represent serious breaches of discipline and professional ethics.
This case highlights the urgent need for an independent investigation, accountability, and stronger safeguards to prevent custodial violence and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights.
Reported by: Tharanga L. Patabendi
