Four Police Officers Arrested Over Death of Man Released on Bail

Wadduwa, February 12, 2025 – Four police constables from the Wadduwa Police Station have been interdicted and arrested over the alleged assault of a suspect who later died after being released on police bail. The officers were taken into custody this afternoon by the Panadura Divisional Crimes Investigation Division and are scheduled to be presented before the Panadura Magistrate’s Court tomorrow (February 13).

The incident has sparked outrage in the local community, with around 40 people gathering outside the Wadduwa Police Station last night, demanding justice. The protest prompted the authorities to deploy officers from surrounding stations, including Bandaragama, Pinwatta, Moronthuduwa, and Hirana, to maintain order.

According to reports, the victim, a father of one from the Thalpitiya area of Wadduwa, was released on bail but later vomited blood before succumbing to his injuries. Allegations of police brutality have surfaced, with claims that the man was severely beaten while in custody.

Following the public outcry, the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) directed the Panadura Crimes Investigation Division to launch a probe into the incident. Police Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manathunga stated that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death. He assured that strict action would be taken against the officers involved if the investigation confirms that the victim was assaulted while in police custody.

The case has once again raised concerns over custodial violence in Sri Lanka, prompting calls for accountability and urgent reforms within the police force.