79 suspects die in Police custody or arrest in Sri Lanka – HRCSL

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) says 79 suspects died in police custody or during arrest over the past 5 years.
The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) states that 79 suspects have died either while in police custody or during the process of being arrested over the past five years.
Commissioner, Attorney-at-Law Nimal Punchihewa, said that of these, 49 suspects died while in custody and 30 died during arrest.
He further stated that, in light of this situation, the Commission has taken steps to issue guidelines to the police on how suspects should be arrested and treated after arrest.
Attorney-at-Law Nimal Punchihewa also noted that these guidelines have been distributed to all police stations through a circular issued by the Acting Inspector General of Police.
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