Security still insufficient - Upul Jayasuriya

August 15, 2014  

The President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, Attorney-at-law, Upul Jayasuriya alleged that the security provided to him by the Police Department is still insufficient.

The observation was made at a press conference held this morning (15) in Colombo. Jayasuriya added that the situation is still the same with respect to his security matter though Senior DIG Anura Senanayake promised the Courts that the department would take adequate measures to tighten his security.

 “There are some police officers in and around my residence in civvies. But, this is not what I requested for. I needed a police officer or two in official uniforms for my security, as I have threats to my life,” Jayasuriya said.

Two complaints have been lodged with the police by President Jayasuriya stating that his life is in danger, as he was followed by two unidentified persons on two occasions, last month.

He pointed out that the police is obliged to provide security to a person whose life is threatened, if a genuine request is made, according to Section 22 of the Police Ordinance.

However, it was reported that some 27 police officers including Police Intelligence officers have been deployed to provide security to Jayasuriya, in civvies.

The Courts was informed that the Police Department is not empowered to provide its officers for personal security, but it will seek advice from the Secretary of the Ministry of Law and Order, who is currently overseas, on this regard.

The ongoing investigation with regard to this matter is handled by Senior DIG Gamini Nawarathna.