Police caution media over ethical violations in sexual assault reporting

The Sri Lanka Police Department has raised concerns about media outlets violating ethical standards in their coverage of the recent sexual assault incident at Anuradhapura Hospital.The police statement highlighted several breaches, particularly the release of the victim’s private details, which caused unnecessary distress and harm. 
Police revealed that excerpts from the victim’s statement, taken from the “B” report with regard to the Anuradhapura sexual assault case, used in legal proceedings, were included in media reports. This disclosure not only violated the victim’s privacy but also interfered with the ongoing legal process. Police also pointed out that this is not the first time such unethical behavior has occurred, citing previous instances of media outlets publishing suspect’s photographs and actions that obstruct the course of justice.