Justice or Vendetta? Final Showdown in IGP Probe

COLOMBO (News 1st): The high-profile committee investigating serious allegations against suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon has concluded its evidence-gathering phase, setting the stage for a potentially historic decision on his future in law enforcement.

The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Preethi Padman Surasena, has set July 8 as the deadline for all parties to submit written submissions. The final hearing was marked by tense exchanges, particularly between Tennakoon’s legal counsel and the committee members.

During the closing session, Sanjeewa Weerawikrama, counsel for Tennakoon, accused the committee of failing to ensure justice, citing missing documents and media pressure. “We never believed this committee would deliver justice,” he said, claiming his client was personally targeted.

Justice Surasena swiftly rebuked the claims: “Do not make false statements. All documents have been submitted. You cannot lie and say your client was denied justice.”

Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris emphasized the integrity of the process, stating, “There is no issue here about victory or defeat. What matters is that justice is served.”

Former Police Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manatunga and ASP Y.S. Keerthisinghe of the CID testified about the events surrounding Tennakoon’s disappearance and the delay in public communication.

Manatunga admitted to learning of Tennakoon’s disappearance two days after the Matara Court named him a suspect on February 27. He defended his media statements, saying they were made under departmental guidance and public pressure.

Keerthisinghe detailed an 11-day search operation across multiple locations, including Nugegoda and Bopitiya, but admitted the team lacked a search warrant and did not consult local officials. “We acted based on the information we had,” he said.

Weerawikrama challenged the credibility of the investigation, suggesting key procedural steps were ignored and accusing Keerthisinghe of fabricating parts of his testimony.

With the evidence phase now closed, the committee’s final decision will hinge on the written submissions.

The outcome could determine whether Tennakoon is permanently removed from office.