Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala yesterday dismissed allegations that the government has banned the release of information on drug-related raids following the arrest of a National People’s Power (NPP) Urban Councillor’s husband over drug smuggling.
Clarifying the matter, the Minister stressed that no circular has been issued prohibiting the dissemination of information to the media, contrary to claims circulating on social media and in political circles.
He explained that the recent police circular—issued after a video went viral showing the arrest of a suspect linked to the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman’s murder—only instructs officers not to release information in a manner that could hinder ongoing investigations.
“There is no ban on releasing information on drug raids. What we have said in the circular is simply that information should not be released in ways that obstruct investigations,” Minister Wijepala stated.
He noted that legal experts and civil society groups have repeatedly raised concerns about police releasing videos of suspects on mainstream and social media immediately after arrests, warning that such actions could compromise investigations and potential prosecutions.
The Minister emphasised that the circular aims to ensure professionalism and protect the integrity of investigations—not to limit media access to information.
