Family express fear for Hejaaz Hizbullah’s safety

The family of detained Lawyer Hejaaz Hizbullah said they have fears of the safety of Hizbullah, following the sudden turn of recent events surrounding his detention.

In a tweet on the "Justice for Hejaaz" portal, they said they "are in fear of the life and safety of Hejaaz".

Media reports said, he, together with Kosgoda Tharaka, a feared underworld figure have been transferred to a treatment facility in Kalutara, after being tested positive for COVID-19.

The tweet further says that Lawyers had on numerous occasions requested for details regarding the condition and location where Hizbullah was being held, but to no avail".

Hizbullah was due to be produced before the Fort Magistrates Court on January 7. The court had arranged for a special place for Hizbullah to be kept after the Magistrate was informed that he had tested Positive for Covid-19 that morning.

The magistrate had arranged for the production to take place at 2. 00 PM.

However, in a surprise move Hizbullahs at around 1.55PM on the day the Family and Lawyers were informed that Hizbullah would not be produced and instead he would be taken to the IDH hospital for treatment.

Later media reports said that he was transferred to a facility in Kaluthara.

Sources close to Hizbullahs family told Daily Mirror that the sudden turn of events gave rise to suspicion given the recent spate of custodial deaths at the hands of authorities.

Daily Mirror learns that the Lawyers of Mr. Hizbullah had written to the Director of Criminal Investigations Department numerous letters requesting details of the condition of Hizbullah to which no response has been given.