Former OIC of the Cyber Crime and Intelligence Analysis Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department, M.M.U. Subasinghe, today (19) expressed his regret in writing to the Supreme Court regarding the arrest of comedian Natasha Edirisuriya under the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Act.
The Attorney General’s Department also informed the court that the IGP will issue a special circular to all police officers within two weeks to prevent illegal arrests under this act.
When the Fundamental Rights Petition filed by Natasha Edirisuriya regarding this illegal arrest was taken up before a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice P. Padman Surasena, he expressed his regret. The Attorney General’s Department also informed the court that the petitioner had also examined the guidelines of the said circular and expressed her agreement with it.
The arresting officer also stated in his letter that he deeply regrets the arrest and remand of Natasha Edirisuriya on May 27, 2023, the damage to her reputation and honor, and the mental anguish she has suffered as a result.
Subsequently, Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena expressed her appreciation to Natasha Edirisuriya in open court for the decision to settle the case in this manner.
Natasha Edirisuriya was arrested on May 27, 2023 for insulting the character of Sidhu through the comedy show Moda Abhimana.