Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara announced yesterday that measures taken to deploy armed security personnel inside Court premises under special circumstances in response to the recent shooting incident at the Hulftsdorp Court complex.

Responding to a question by SLPP Kalutara District MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena said the Minister acknowledged that current regulations prohibit armed guards from entering Courtrooms.

However, he emphasised that the Government is taking necessary measures to enhance security, particularly when high-risk accused individuals are brought before the Courts. Nanayakkara stated that discussions will be held with the Judicial Services Commission, Police and the Prisons Department to finalise the new security protocols.

He assured that these steps are being taken to ensure the safety of all stakeholders in the judicial system while maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings.

Nanayakkara also said that an amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure will be brought to allow special category prisoners to give evidence through video conferencing from within the prisons they are in. This amendment has been prepared and submitted to the Cabinet.

“This technology can improve access to justice and reduce the need for prisoner transport,”he added.

Speaking further, Minister Nanayakkara stated that after the adoption of these amendments, it will be possible to obtain evidence even from a person in a foreign country. The Minister said that incidents like that occurred in the Aluthkade court premises can be prevented only under such a programme.

He also said as some underworld activities pose a threat to the lives of prison officers, full attention has been paid to ensuring their safety.

(dailynews.lk)
(This story, originally published by dailynews.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)