Surgery death in Galle: Medical inquiry ordered

The deceased, Gaya Sewwandi Ileperuma (41), a resident of Meepawala in Poddala, had initially been admitted to the private hospital on August 7 with back pain. She subsequently underwent surgery to remove her womb and was discharged post-operation. However, after developing complications, she was re-admitted on August 11. Her condition deteriorated, and she was transferred in critical condition to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital on August 13. She died on August 22.

Her husband lodged a formal complaint, alleging medical negligence on the part of the doctors and staff at the private hospital and called for a thorough investigation to deliver justice.

The Galle Magistrate, after reviewing a report submitted by the Crime Investigation Branch of the Galle Police, instructed the Director of Health Services for the Southern Province to appoint a specialist medical committee to carry out an independent inquiry into the incident.

Further investigations are being carried out by the Crime Investigation Branch under IP D.G. Ananda, on the instructions of HQI Galle Police, S. S. Jayaweera.