Courtesy The Sunday Island

Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara informed Parliament on Thursday (20) that armed officers will be deployed inside courtrooms to ensure the security of special detainees during proceedings.

Responding to a question from Kalutara District NDF MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena, the Minister highlighted that the absence of armed officers within courtrooms poses a security risk. He noted incidents of individuals disguising themselves as lawyers, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security measures.

A special committee will be formed to engage with key stakeholders, including the Judicial Service Commission, the police, and the Bar Association, to implement armed security when necessary. Additionally, advanced screening procedures will be introduced to further bolster courtroom safety. The government also aims to improve the welfare of prison officers, including aligning their salaries with those of the police service.

As part of broader judicial reforms, an amendment to the Criminal Procedure Code will be introduced, allowing detainees to testify via video link, reducing the need for their physical presence in court, the Minister said.