Assistant commissioner of Anuradhapura prison arrested

According to sources within the CID, the senior prison official is accused of manipulating official records to facilitate the unauthorized release of the inmate, who was not among those listed for clemency under the Vesak Poya pardon granted by the President.

The arrest follows an internal investigation triggered by discrepancies found in the list of pardoned prisoners. Authorities suspect the involvement of a broader network within the prison administration, and further arrests have not been ruled out.

The unlawful release has sparked public concern and prompted calls for stricter oversight of the Presidential Pardon process, which is traditionally granted during significant religious and national events.

The suspect is expected to be produced before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that any individuals found guilty of misconduct will be held accountable.