The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has removed 20 judicial officers, including judges, from service following investigations into public complaints, Lankadeepa reported.

According to the report, the group includes a High Court judge, several District Judges, and Magistrates. Out of the 20 officers removed, the services of seven have been permanently terminated, while others have been either suspended or sent on compulsory retirement.

The JSC’s decision follows disciplinary inquiries conducted into complaints received from the public against judicial officers. Some of those removed had faced formal charges, including serious allegations of corruption, and were subjected to official investigations.

After the conclusion of these inquiries, the officers found guilty were removed from service by the JSC chaired by Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena.

It is also reported that the High Court judge dismissed from service is currently facing an inquiry before Supreme Court Judge Janak de Silva.

Sources further indicate that those nearing retirement age were given the option to retire instead of being formally dismissed.