Youth assaulted by Police in Hambantota transferred to Matara Hospital, Human Rights Commission commences an investigation

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka has commenced an investigation into the alleged assault on a youth by a senior police officer during the protest staged by the Joint Opposition in Hambantota.

An officer attached to the investigations unit of the Human Rights Commission told our news team that the investigation will be conducted analyzing the video recordings posted on social media and footage released by electronic media.

In addition, Police Headquarters noted that three investigations have been launched into the incident and the alleged assault that has taken place during the protest.

Police Media Spokesperson, SP Ruwan Gunasekara stated that an investigation has been initiated under the supervision of a DIG into the assault.

The National Police Commission yesterday (07) noted that a report in this regard was called from the Inspector General of Police.

The Joint Opposition staged a protest in Hambantota last Friday against leasing out the Mattala International Airport to an Indian company.

Later, Police arrested 28 individuals and were produced before courts.

The footage captured by media showed that ASP Thushara Daluwaththa was slapping an arrested youth on the face.

The victim who was receiving treatment at Hambantota Hospital has been transferred to Matara Hospital for further treatment.

Prison Media Spokesperson, Thushara Upuldeniya stated that the youth is receiving treatment under the security of prison officials.

Meanwhile, Provincial Councillors Upali Kodikara, Sampath Athukorala, and Retired Major Ajith Prasanna have been informed to appear at Hambantota Police tomorrow over the incident.