The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed grave concern over the death of a 29-year-old suspect while in the custody of the Homagama Police, calling for an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

In a statement, the BASL says that the deceased is one Ishara Harshakumara, a father of two from Kiriwaththuduwa, who had been arrested in connection with a drug-related investigation.

It adds that family members visiting the Homagama Police Station on Oct. 25 had reported observing physical injuries on the suspect, which they believe as indications of severe assault.

However, the BASL noted that the Police Spokesman had provided a different account, stating that the suspect had developed a sudden illness during an operation and died following admission to hospital.

“The BASL emphasizes that a death in custody is a matter of the gravest concern, and that the State as a fundamental and non-delegable duty to safeguard the life, health and bodily integrity of every person in its custody. Any allegation of custodial violence or ill-treatment must therefore be treated with the utmost seriousness and, if established, dealt with strictly in accordance with the law,” the statement notes.

“Accordingly the BASL calls upon the Inspector General of Police and all relevant authorities to ensure an immediate, impartial, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Ishara Harshakumara, with all relevant evidence properly preserved and examined and the investigation conducted without interference oor prejudice, it adds.