Former Officer-in-Charge of the Cyber Crime Investigation and Intelligence Analysis Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department Sri Lanka, M.M.U. Subhasinghe, today formally expressed regret in writing to civil activist and comedian Nathasha Edirisooriya at the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka over her arrest under the ICCPR Act.
Appearing on behalf of the respondents, the Attorney General’s Department Sri Lanka informed court that the Inspector General of Police Sri Lanka will issue a circular within two weeks outlining guidelines to all police officers to prevent unlawful arrests under the Act in future. It was also noted that Edirisooriya had reviewed and agreed to the proposed guidelines.
These submissions were made before a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice P. Padman Surasena during the hearing of a Fundamental Rights petition filed by Edirisooriya challenging her arrest.
Following the developments, the court directed the respondents to notify the court via motion within two weeks of issuing the IGP circular and ordered the conclusion of proceedings.
Nathasha Edirisooriya was present in open court. Addressing her, Chief Justice Surasena said the court appreciated the manner in which the matter had been resolved.
In his letter, Subhasinghe stated:
“As the arresting officer, considering the totality of circumstances, I wish to express deep regret to you for the arrest on 27th May 2023 and your incarceration in remand custody till 5th July 2023 consequent thereto. I also extend my deep regret regarding the damage that may have been caused to your reputation and dignity, and mental and emotional trauma caused by your arrest and incarceration.”
The respondents agreed to issue the circular and express regret in line with conditions proposed by Edirisooriya in consultation with her legal counsel Suren Fernando and her legal team.
