The Attorney General’s decision to close the case surrounding the November 2020 killings of 11 inmates at Mahara Prison is set to be challenged by the Committee for the Protection of Prisoners’ Rights (CPRP). The inmates were shot dead during violent protests related to the spread of Covid-19, leading to public outcry and a ruling by the Welisara Magistrate’s Court that deemed the deaths a “crime.” The court ordered the arrest of the prison officers involved.
CPRP president and lawyer Senaka Perera announced plans to file an appeal against the Attorney General’s controversial decision, which claimed that the prison officials acted under Article 77 of the Prison Ordinance. This provision permits prison officers to use force when necessary to maintain order or prevent violence. However, Perera argues that such power must be exercised proportionately and only as a last resort.
“The Attorney General asserts that Section 77 of the Prison Ordinance applies here, but the circumstances in this case are entirely different,” Perera emphasized. The CPRP aims to ensure accountability and justice for the victims of this tragic incident as it moves forward with legal action.
