United National Party (UNP) Vice President , who referred to the controversial transfer of Moneragala District DIG M.R. Latheef said yesterday government politicians were openly violating the law and pointed out that the repeal of the 17th Amendment had resulted in the police service losing its independence.

“Even in the case of the brutal killing of the monk at Egodauyana, political pressure from politicians had prevented the police from acting on the several complaints made by the monk. This is the unfortunate situation in this country,” he said.

Mr. Kiriella said the 17th amendment ensured an independent police service but its repeal had brought the under the Executive.

“The 17th Amendment ensured an independent police force with little or no room for political interference. Now it’s selective justice that is being meted out because duty conscious and honest police officers end up succumbing to severe pressure by corrupt officials. This is a very unfortunate and dangerous situation,” he said.

Earlier top police sources alleged that the controversial transfer of DIG M.R. Latheef from the Moneragala Police Division was prompted by an incident involving the arrest of illegal sand miners connected to Minister Sumedha Jayasena of the Moneragala District. (Hafeel Farisz)

Source: Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka)