The public questioning of a suspect arrested in Maharagama yesterday, in connection with the murder of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickremasekara, has sparked strong condemnation from President’s Counsel Saliya Pieris and the Professional Web Journalists’ Association. Both parties allege that releasing “voice cuts” of suspects to the media compromises police professionalism and could jeopardize future trials.
President’s Counsel Saliya Pieris, in a Facebook post, emphasized that arrests and criminal investigations must strictly adhere to established legal procedures. He described the public interrogation of suspects, the release of their “voice cuts,” and the distribution of these clips through media as “childish acts” that, while appeasing the public, would ultimately hinder the prosecution once a trial commences. He asserted that such actions damage the police department’s image, raise questions about the professionalism of investigators, and bring disrepute to the entire criminal justice system.
The Professional Web Journalists’ Association also issued a statement, observing that the collection of “voice cuts” from arrested suspects, either by force or influence, and their subsequent release to the media, appears to occur with the “blessing” of the Sri Lanka Police itself. The Association highlighted this as a violation of legal and professional principles by law enforcement agencies. They strongly urged the Police Department and the Ministry of Public Security to immediately cease the promotion of such videos, emphasizing that an arrest does not equate to a conviction.
The Association further warned that such publicity undermines the efficiency of investigations and stressed the importance of respecting the fundamental rights of all citizens in law enforcement, as well as maintaining the professionalism of investigations. These statements deliver a clear message that the police must adhere to legal procedures when enforcing the law.
