No more going to former presidents' houses to take statements - Watagala

The government has taken steps to suspend the practice of investigative officers visiting the homes of senior politicians, including former executive presidents, to record statements and obtain testimonies. Minister of Public Security, Mr. Sunil Watagala, states that any person, regardless of their status, must personally appear before the relevant law enforcement agencies for investigative purposes.

He also emphasized that this decision reaffirms the policy of applying the law equally to all, regardless of political status or position.

Due to the liberation of state institutions such as the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), the Attorney General's Department, and the judiciary from political interference, success in investigations has been achieved. The Minister pointed out that the current administration has taken strong measures to uphold the rule of law and protect the independence of state institutions, stating that an environment has been created for these institutions to perform their duties efficiently without political influence.

The Minister reminded that every person should be entitled to equal protection of the law in accordance with Article 12(1) of the Sri Lankan Constitution. He stated that no favoritism would be shown when dealing with the misuse of state property and corrupt practices, and that the era where the law varied based on past political affiliations or status has ended. Accordingly, no VIP will henceforth be allowed to give statements from their homes, regardless of their influence.

Minister Sunil Watagala further warned that the law would be strictly enforced against individuals attempting to evade court proceedings or investigations. Legal notices are issued under Section 106 to bring in suspects residing within the country, while Interpol Red Notices are used to extradite criminals hiding abroad. The Minister, pointing out that no one can escape the law, stated that 74 suspects connected to international drug networks have already been arrested and brought to Sri Lanka.