Colombo – The Sri Lanka Police have issued a public advisory cautioning against the dissemination of unverified photographs and videos—particularly those related to ongoing investigations and court proceedings—across electronic, print, and social media platforms.
Authorities have observed a growing trend in the circulation of both edited and unedited footage, including AI-generated or AI-altered content, connected to cases currently under investigation, pending before the courts, or expected to be presented in the future. These materials often pertain to drug raids, criminal investigations, and other sensitive incidents.
According to the police, such unverified content poses serious risks by exerting undue pressure on victims and witnesses, potentially compromising the integrity of investigations and judicial processes.
Citing the Establishments Code of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, the police emphasized that only designated officials—namely the Secretary to the Ministry, the Head of the Department, or an officer authorized by the Head—are permitted to release information to the media. As such, all verified photographs and video footage related to these matters will be disseminated exclusively through the Police Media Division, which will assume full responsibility for their accuracy.
The statement further warned that media institutions and individuals who publish or share unverified or misleading content may be held legally accountable, especially if challenged by affected parties in court.
However, the police clarified that this directive does not infringe upon the fundamental rights of citizens as enshrined in the Constitution.
( Sri Lanka Brief)