The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has uncovered evidence suggesting that several inmates were unlawfully released from prison under the guise of a presidential pardon granted during Vesak 2025, the Police Media Division revealed yesterday.

According to a complaint lodged by the Presidential Secretariat on 6 June, certain inmates who were not officially approved for clemency were freed by prison officials, raising serious concerns over the misuse of executive powers. The complaint alleges that in addition to those who received pardons legally granted by the President under constitutional powers, other prisoners were also released in violation of due process.

The CID has launched a full-scale investigation into the matter and has already recorded a statement from the Commissioner General of Prisons. Further documentation is being reviewed, and additional statements are expected to be taken in the coming days.

Police said initial findings indicate that a number of inmates were wrongfully freed by prison authorities during the Vesak period, using the official pardon programme as a cover.

In a significant development, investigators have also found indications that this was not the first such occurrence. “There is information that in previous instances, inmates who were not approved for presidential clemency had also been released unlawfully,” the Police Media Division stated, confirming that these past incidents would also be subject to further investigation.

The Police said the CID will continue to probe the actions of all officials involved in the alleged irregularities, including prison officers and other connected personnel. The investigation focuses on the possibility that convicted individuals were released from custody in violation of judicial procedures.