News Today: Suspended IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon’s Writ Petition Rejected, Court Orders Immediate Arrest

The Court of Appeal has dismissed the writ petition filed by suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon and ordered his immediate arrest. The ruling comes after the Matara Magistrate’s order to apprehend Tennakoon was delayed, prompting judicial intervention.

The two-judge bench of the Court of Appeal, consisting of Justice (Acting President) Mohamed Laffar and Justice Sarath Dissanayake, issued a directive to the Acting IGP and other relevant authorities to take immediate action to arrest and produce Tennakoon before the Magistrate’s Court, as per legal provisions.

Additionally, the court instructed the Matara Magistrate to initiate legal proceedings against individuals who aided and abetted Tennakoon in evading arrest. This move underscores the court’s firm stance against obstruction of justice.

Court Condemns Police Chief’s Evasion of Arrest

While delivering the order, the Court of Appeal Justices expressed regret that the country’s highest-ranking police officer deliberately went into hiding to avoid arrest. They emphasized that such actions not only damage the credibility of the judiciary but also tarnish the reputation of the Sri Lanka Police Department.

Tennakoon, who was already suspended from his duties, had filed a writ petition seeking relief against the arrest order. However, the Court of Appeal found no merit in his plea and upheld the Matara Magistrate’s decision.

This latest development is a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s legal and law enforcement history, highlighting the importance of judicial accountability and the rule of law. The ruling reinforces that no one, regardless of position, is above the law.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the public remains watchful, anticipating the next steps in this high-profile case.