Police launch internal inquiry regarding Riyad Bathiudeen release

Colombo (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police launched internal investigations with regard to the arrest of Ex-Minister Rishad Bathiudeen's brother, Riyad Bathiudeen who was earlier arrested on the charge of having contact with one of the suicide bombers responsible for the 2019 April 21st Attacks. Police Spokesperson DIG Ajith Rohana speaking to reporters on Wednesday (14) said 60 Police Officers split into 02 teams are conducting investigations. These investigations are directly taking place under the supervision of the DIG in charge of the Criminal Investigations Department and 02 SSPs and 01 ASP. On Monday (12) Attorney General Dappula De Livera said it was observed the decision to release Riyad Bathiudeen was made on unjustifiable grounds. Further, it was revealed the Criminal Investigations Department had failed on the following points: – Failure to conduct an investigation against Riyad Bathiudeen on Money Laundering – Failure assign an experienced and knowledgable officer to conduct investigations with regard to Money Laundering – Failure to conduct extensive investigations on Terrorism Activity – Failure to locate 12 of the 16 mobile phones used by Riyad Bathiudeen The DIG in-Charge of the CID was instructed by the Attorney General on Monday (12) to produce all investigative material within one month. Attorney General Dappula De Livera had noted the release of Riyad Bathiudeen by the Criminal Investigations Department is unjustified.