IGP Under Fire: ‘Even Harak Kata Fear Him,’ Says Deputy Solicitor General

COLOMBO (News 1st): Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon appeared for the third consecutive day before the special committee appointed to investigate allegations of abuse of power during his tenure. The proceedings, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Priyantha Padman Surasena, featured sharp exchanges, concerns over media misrepresentation, and serious accusations from both legal teams.

Representing the IGP was Attorney-at-Law Sanjeewa Weerawikrama, while Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris appeared on behalf of the Attorney General.

During the session, Tennakoon raised concerns about how certain media outlets had allegedly distorted his previous testimony.

“Your Lordship, some media outlets have reported that I said police officers are afraid of ‘Harak Kata’. I never made such a statement. This is deeply unfair to me and tarnishes the reputation of officers who serve with responsibility. It creates unnecessary problems.”

Justice Surasena responded by acknowledging the presence of corruption within public institutions, including the police.

“Some corrupt officials are still in government service, including within the police. It is said that a group of such individuals is involved in this matter. That’s what this is about.”

Tennakoon also expressed fears for his personal safety, citing threats linked to media coverage and his upcoming court appearance in Matara.

“I do not have state security. These kinds of media reports could lead to threats against my life. I request that the confidentiality of this committee be protected.”

Justice Surasena, however, clarified the committee’s limitations:

“Such threats are not within the scope of this committee. Journalists must act with caution. We cannot intervene in matters of personal security. That’s why these proceedings are not confidential and why we’ve allowed media presence.”

Following the exchange, Justice Surasena submitted the primary evidence to the committee with the agreement of both parties. Peiris noted that ongoing investigations into the Weligama shooting incident have delayed the submission of remaining evidence.

Both parties agreed to present the testimonies of witnesses 23 and 30 to the committee. Additionally, the statements of key witnesses 24 and 25 will be read in Parliament.

Attorney Weerawikrama requested three days—from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.—to review the evidence, a request the committee did not oppose.

The committee is scheduled to reconvene on June 9, 11, and 16, with continuous sessions planned from the 16th onward.