AG undertakes advance notification on custodial movements

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Attorney General on Tuesday (7) informed the Court of Appeal that the future steps with regard to underworld gang member Janith Madushanka alias 'Podi Lassie' who is currently in the custody of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), will be informed to court, upon discussing the matter with the Inspector General of Police, once the period of the detention order is over.

This was when the Writ Petition filed by 'Podi Lassie' and his wife requesting for his safety to be ensured, was called up in the presence of Court of Appeal Judge Mohammed Lafar Thahir.

President's Counsel Saliya Peiris appearing on behalf of the Petitioners informed the court that the detention order on Podi Lassie concludes on the 15th of December and preparations are underway to hand over his client to the Special Investigations Unit of the Peliyagoda Police.

President's Counsel Saliya Peiris also noted that information has come to light regarding an attempt on Podi Lassie's life while in the custody of the Police.

Whilst referring to the statement made by the Minister-in-charge of Police in Parliament regarding how detainees could face adverse events depending on their conduct when they are escorted for further investigations, President's Counsel Saliya Peiris pointed out to the court that such statements could endanger the life of his client.

Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris on behalf of the Attorney General informed the court that the Inspector General of Police promised the court in May this year, to ensure the safety of Podi Lassie.

Accordingly, Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris stated court that the future steps with regard to 'Podi Lassie' will be informed to court on the 13th of this month.