Police have launched an internal investigation following reports that a birthday party was held for Ishara Sewwandi while she was in custody at the Colombo crimes Division (CCD), with disciplinary action already taken against a senior officer, Police Spokesperson F.U. Wootler said.

Addressing a media briefing, Wootler confirmed that information had emerged indicating that a birthday celebration had been organised for Ishara Sewwandi while she was being detained and questioned by the police.

Sewwandi, 25, has been identified as a key suspect in aiding and abetting the murder of Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, also known as ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa,’ in February 2025. She was arrested in Nepal during a joint operation conducted by Sri Lanka Police in collaboration with Nepalese security authorities.

Wootler stated that upon receiving reports of the incident, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of the Colombo Range had personally visited the relevant Criminal Investigation Division to inquire into the matter. A formal investigation has also been initiated under the supervision of Senior Superintendents of Police.

It is reported that Sewwandi’s brother had brought a birthday cake to the CCD, and that the DIG’s visit coincided with the cake-cutting and celebration.

He further noted that strict disciplinary action had been taken against the Officer-in-Charge of the division concerned.

Emphasising professional standards, Wootler said that police officers, as public officials representing the executive, are bound by a strict code of ethics, which prohibits maintaining any form of relationship with individuals involved in criminal activity.

The police reiterated that adherence to these ethical standards is essential to safeguarding the integrity and public trust of the service.