Police have issued a statement cautioning media outlets about the legal ramifications of unauthorized reporting on crime incidents. The statement highlights that certain media activities, conducted without approval from the police or relevant authorities, have disrupted ongoing investigations by prematurely disclosing details that are under judicial consideration.
According to the police, Section 365A of the Penal Code, amended by Act No. 22 of 1995, explicitly forbids the disclosure of the identities of victims in cases involving sensitive crimes such as sexual harassment, sexual exploitation of children, rape, prostitution, unnatural offenses, and gross indecency.
The police further stressed that publishing or broadcasting any details related to ongoing court cases without prior court approval is a legal violation.
In addition, Section 20 of the Assistance to and Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act, No. 10 of 2023, also prohibits the public disclosure of the identities of victims, witnesses, and informants.
The police warned that exceeding legal boundaries in crime reporting could lead to severe consequences for victims, including harassment, threats, or further trauma.
The statement also cautioned that media outlets could face legal action if their reporting causes harm to victims or interferes with the investigation process.
It noted that publishing photographs of suspects without police approval could hinder identification parades, while sensationalizing details of investigations might compromise the integrity of law enforcement efforts and even assist future criminal activities by revealing crucial investigative tactics.
Police urged media organizations to adhere to legal protocols and respect the privacy and safety of crime victims, witnesses, and ongoing investigations to ensure justice is served without disruption.
