Police Issue Strict Guidelines on Crime Reporting

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police issued a statement outlining the legal implications of reporting crime incidents.

The statement emphasizes that certain media activities, conducted without the approval of the police or a responsible authority, have hindered ongoing investigations by disclosing details reported to the court.

According to the statement, Section 365A of the Penal Code, amended by Act No. 22 of 1995, prohibits the disclosure of the identity of victims of certain crimes. 

These crimes include sexual harassment, sexual exploitation of children, rape, prostitution, unnatural offenses, and gross indecency.

The police highlighted that publishing or broadcasting any details related to ongoing court cases without court approval is a violation of the law. 

Additionally, Section 20 of the Assistance to and. Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act, No. 10 of. 2023 prohibits the public disclosure of the identities of victims, witnesses, and informants.

The statement further warns that exceeding legal boundaries in reporting on crime investigations and victims can lead to adverse consequences for the victims. Media organizations could face legal action if their reporting causes harm to the victims.

The police also noted that disclosing the identities of victims can lead to their harassment and threats, while publishing photos of suspects without police approval can hinder identification parades. 

Moreover, sensationalizing investigation details can disrupt the investigative process and potentially aid future criminal activities by revealing technical aspects of the investigations.