The Assistant Commissioner of Anuradhapura Prison has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over the illegal release of an inmate under the recent Presidential Pardon granted for Vesak Poya.
The arrest was confirmed by Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala, who stated that the CID took the official into custody on the evening of 8th of June .
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka Police recorded a statement from the Commissioner General of Prisons regarding the controversial prisoner releases.
Investigations have revealed that several inmates were unlawfully released by misusing the Presidential Pardon process.
A formal complaint was submitted to the CID by the Presidential Secretariat on June 6, prompting a comprehensive investigation.
The complaint alleged that certain prisoners were wrongfully released by being falsely included among those officially pardoned for Vesak.
The CID has questioned the Commissioner General of Prisons and continues to examine related documents and record further statements.
The investigation has uncovered that unauthorized releases of prisoners under previous Presidential Pardons may have occurred as well.
The CID is now probing all prison officials connected to the illegal releases, including those who may have aided in freeing convicted individuals without approval.
1The Police Media Division stated that the inquiry is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying systemic failures and holding responsible parties accountable.
