Posted online by Derechos Human Rights
28 May 1998 Further information on UA 49/98 issued 13 February 1998 - Death threat / Fear of extrajudicial execution SRI LANKA Iqbal Athas, journalist Serious concern continues for the safety of Iqbal Athas and his family who remain under police protection subsequent to his attempted abduction on 12 February 1998 by five gunmen who forcibly entered his home threatening him and his family. The failed abduction attempt, by men believed to be working on behalf of the security services, followed continued periods of harassment. This is believed to be connected to Iqbal Athas's work as a senior journalist specializing in defence-related reporting and his current investigations into corruption in the top echelons of the security forces, particularly the Air Force. It is also linked to his outspoken criticisms of some of the military actions undertaken in the ongoing conflict between the security forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). It was discovered that vehicles used for surveillance of his home were registered as being owned by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Following widespread condemnation, President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga ordered a CID enquiry into the incident. A ministerial statement was also issued which said that: "steps have already been taken to ensure that the offenders are dealt with in terms of the law, irrespective of position, rank or influence they may wield in Sri Lankan society." On 5 May, Iqbal Athas and a member of his household were able to identify two Air Force officers, a squadron leader and a flight lieutenant who had been taken into custody, as being involved in the abduction attempt. At the time they were reportedly personal bodyguards for the then Air Force Commander -- since forced to retire, possibly as a result of the large-scale corruption in the Air Force exposed by Iqbal Athas. They were remanded in custody until 8 May but then released on bail. Although the CID have stated that they intended to make more arrests, none have so far been made. The CID have stated, however, that further arrests will be made prior to the next court hearing scheduled for 10 June. Amnesty International welcomes the investigation being carried out into the continuing harassment and attempted abduction of Iqbal Athas on 12 February 1998. Amnesty International urges the Sri Lankan government to take all necessary steps during the course of the investigation to protect Iqbal Athas and any other witnesses involved against intimidation or threats.