Commission probes assault of prisoners

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has commenced an investigation into the assault of prisoners at the Angunakolapelessa Closed Prison on 22 November 2018.

In a statement, the Commission said that it had taken note of media reports and the release of videos on the assault of prisoners.

When it was alerted to the incident, the Commission visited the Prison, obtained statements from prisoners and requested the Superintendent of the Prison to produce those who alleged assault to be examined by the Judicial Medical Officer (JMO).

The Commission has also requested the Superintendent to provide medical assistance to inmates who required such assistance.

The Commission undertook a number of follow-up visits in December 2018 to obtain further statements of prisoners, monitored whether prisoners were produced before the JMO as requested and monitored their general well-being.

In early December 2018 the Commission summoned the Commissioner-General of Prisons and the Superintendent of Angunakolapelessa Closed Prison for inquiries about the incident.

During these inquiries the Commission reiterated the need to adhere to the constitutional provisions on freedom from torture and pointed to the Convention Against Torture Act No 22 of 1994, which criminalises torture.

Inquiries are ongoing and the Commission expects to issue its recommendation soon, the statement said.

Date: 19 January 2019

Source: Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka