Procedure for arrest of former prison chief deemed irregular

The arrest and suspension of former Commissioner General of Prisons, Thushara Upuldeniya, did not follow proper procedure, according to the Human Rights Commission. Upuldeniya faced legal action and remand over the release of several unregistered prisoners under a presidential pardon.

The Criminal Investigation Department took him into custody on June 10, 2025, following a complaint from the Presidential Secretariat. His suspension became effective on June 09, 2025, based on a cabinet decision.

The Human Rights Commission reached this conclusion after investigating a complaint filed by Upuldeniya against his arrest and suspension. Consequently, the commission notified the Inspector General of Police and the Ministry of Justice to examine the matter and provide appropriate recommendations.