The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka was informed today (23) that the arrest and prolonged detention of a youth from Mawanella under the Prevention of Terrorism Act were unlawful, with the responsible Police officer issuing an apology and agreeing to compensation.
The 21-year-old, Mohamed Rifai Mohamed Suhel, had been remanded for nearly nine months after Police alleged he posted social media content in October 2024 that harmed the Israeli flag.
Appearing before court, Dehiwala Police OIC H.M.A.B. Herath expressed regret, acknowledged a violation of the youth’s fundamental rights, and handed over Rs. 2 million in compensation in open court.
The petition was heard before Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Janak de Silva and Sampath Wijeratne.
Counsel for the petitioner, Hejaaz Hizbullah, stated that the Attorney General’s Department had advised there was no basis to proceed with charges, leading to the youth’s release by the Mount Lavinia Magistrate’s Court.
Both parties agreed to settle the matter, and the Supreme Court ordered the case concluded. The youth also agreed to withdraw a complaint filed with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka against the Police officer.
The petitioner had filed a fundamental rights case alleging that his arrest and detention under the PTA were based on false claims regarding social media content.
