US endorses HRCSL and BASL concerns over police operations

The United States has echoed the concerns raised by the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) and the Bar Association regarding alleged human rights abuses during the ongoing ‘Yukthiya’ police operations.

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie J. Chung, in a statement issued yesterday emphasized the importance of combating drug trafficking while stressing that law enforcement operations must adhere to the principles of the rule of law and due process.

“Striking this balance is vital for justice and maintaining public trust,” she said.

Earlier, the HRCSL expressed deep unease and initiated an immediate inquiry into reports of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment during search operations associated with the ‘Yukthiya’ Operation.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka has also expressed serious concerns about the operation, emphasizing the contradiction between reports of widespread injustice and the operation’s title, ‘Yukthiya,’.