Acting IGP Recommends OIC’s Suspension Over Death of Youth in Custody

Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya has recommended the immediate transfer of the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Welikada Police Station, following the death of a 26-year-old suspect who was in police custody.

The suspect, who was arrested on April 1 for allegedly breaking into a house in the Nawala area, reportedly exhibited riotous behavior while in custody. He was later admitted to the National Institute of Mental Health in Mulleriyawa, where he died the following morning.

In response to the incident, Acting IGP Weerasooriya submitted a formal recommendation for the OIC’s transfer to the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs on April 6. The recommendation has since been forwarded to the National Police Commission for further action. The move is intended to facilitate a fair and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death.

Meanwhile, two other police officers a sergeant and a constable have been suspended from duty for alleged negligence related to the incident. The Police Media Division confirmed the suspensions.

Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is currently conducting an investigation into the matter under direct instructions from the Acting IGP.

This latest development adds to growing public scrutiny over the conduct of law enforcement officers and the treatment of detainees in police custody.