Senior Deputy Inspector General (SDIG) of Police for the Western Province, Sajeewa Medawatta, stated that while it is believed the death of an individual while in the custody of Homagama Police may have resulted from an assault incident, a definitive conclusion can only be reached based on the findings of the final medical report.

He made these remarks while participating in a special press briefing held today (29) at the Police Media Division.

The SDIG revealed that the autopsy report indicates the deceased had three fractured ribs and a brain haemorrhage.

Furthermore, he mentioned that, according to information revealed thus far, the individual in question had also sustained injuries to his head.

The SDIG further stated that the individual had been held at the Police Station’s Crimes Division for a period of time before being moved to the detention cell, and that reports have emerged suggesting he may have been assaulted during that time period.

However, he added that these reports of an assault have not yet been confirmed, and that an extensive investigation into the incident is currently underway.

He further emphasised that the findings of the investigation—including details from the medical report—are crucial for reaching a definitive conclusion regarding the cause of the individual's death and the circumstances surrounding it.

Senior DIG of the Western Province, Sajeewa Medawatta, reiterated that while it cannot be ruled out that an assault led to the suspect’s death, it also cannot be confirmed until the medical report is received.