The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has revealed that 79 individuals have died in police custody or in incidents following arrest between 2020 and March 2025, according to complaints received by the Commission.
In an inquiry conducted by Anidda newspaper journalist Lasantha Ruhunage, HRCSL Commissioner and Attorney-at-Law Nimal G. Punchihewa confirmed that 49 of the reported deaths occurred directly while in police custody. A further 30 individuals reportedly died in incidents following arrest, such as during alleged attempts to retrieve hidden weapons or in other post-arrest operations involving the police.
In response to this alarming trend, the Commission has taken a proactive step by issuing a comprehensive set of guidelines and recommendations for law enforcement authorities. These directives aim to prevent further deaths and ensure that the rights of individuals in police custody are protected in line with national and international human rights standards.
The guidelines, which emphasize accountability, transparency, and the humane treatment of detainees, have been officially handed over to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and heads of state institutions.
Acting Inspector General of Police and Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya, who attended the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture event hosted by the HRCSL on June 26, confirmed that the guidelines have now been disseminated to all police stations across the country in the form of an official police circular.
Human rights advocates have welcomed the move but stress the importance of strict enforcement and independent monitoring to ensure these guidelines are not merely symbolic.
The HRCSL has reiterated its commitment to holding institutions accountable and ensuring justice for victims of custodial torture and death, urging continued public vigilance and institutional cooperation to uphold human dignity and the rule of law in Sri Lanka.
Use the bellow link to read more
