A 29-year-old man arrested in connection with a drug-related investigation has died after being held at the Homagama Police Station, with his family alleging that he was assaulted by police officers.
The deceased has been identified as Ishara Harsha Kumara, a resident of Kiriwaththuduwa.
According to his relatives, the suspect was arrested and detained at the Homagama Police Station.
Family members alleged that they learned he had been assaulted when they visited the police station to see him.
They further claimed that the suspect was unable to walk and had to be carried by several officers after being taken for questioning.
Relatives alleged that he had visible injuries and was bleeding when he was returned to the police cell.
Following requests from family members, police officers took the suspect to the Homagama Base Hospital. However, his relatives claimed that he had already died by that time.
The family has called for an impartial investigation and justice over the death.
Responding to the allegations, the Police Spokesman said the suspect had been brought to the Homagama Police Station during an operation and had subsequently developed a sudden illness.
He said the suspect died after being admitted to the hospital.
The Police Spokesman further confirmed that the Homagama Assistant Superintendent of Police has initiated a preliminary investigation into the incident. (Newswire)