Protestors should not have to fear for their lives: HRW

COLOMBO (News 1st); Human Rights Watch says Sri Lanka should investigate the use of excessive force by police during protests in Rambukkana on Tuesday (19).

Human Rights Watch has called the use of force by the police as "excessive" during protests in Rambukkana, with the Associate Asia Director of Human Rights Watch, Patricia Gossman, stating that the use of live ammunition "appears to be a flagrant misuse of lethal force".

She added that people protesting against Government policies that affect them shouldn't have to fear for their lives.

Gossman said: "International law prohibits the use of lethal force by law enforcement officers unless there is an imminent threat to life"

The director added that authorities must conduct a prompt and transparent investigation and take appropriate action against any wrongdoing.