March 31, 2012
Mr. N.K. Illangakoon
Inspector General of Police
New Secretariat
Colombo 1
Sri Lanka
Dear Sir:
I write to urge you to initiate a thorough investigation into two attempted abductions of Herman Kumara, secretary general of the World Forum of Fisher People (WFFP) and the head of the National Fisheries Solidarity Movement (NAFSO).
Such surreptitious threats, as well as attempts by individuals to gather personal information about Mr. Kumara lead me to believe that his life is at risk.
Mr. Kumara has committed no legal offense, so it is alarming to see a pattern of suspicious behaviors emerge that interrupt his life and work. I believe that government authorities need to ensure his safety and to deal appropriately with those who have apparently threatened his life.
Press coverage of Mr. Kumara’s return to Sri Lanka on Feb. 24, 2012, after attending an international gathering of farmers in Rome, Italy, reports how he was followed by a green-colored vehicle with the license plate number 301-2865. Further, individuals have been seeking information about Mr. Kumara from his neighbors. An individual claiming to be an officer with the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) was also allegedly gathering data about his family, his vehicles and his work. These reports were disturbing enough to prompt Mr. Kumara’s wife, Srini Kumudinie Adihetty, to file a complaint at the Pannala police station (CIB 241/490).
On Feb. 25, 2012, a motor bike also attempted to follow Mr. Kumara’s vehicle after he spoke at a public rally.
Both the WFFP and NAFSO are respected organizations in the international community. Both groups have a history of working peacefully in Sri Lanka to raise the voice of the fishing community, which includes some of the most vulnerable people in the society. Globally, the voice of Mr. Kumara is recognized as a distinguished spokesman for human rights within Sri Lankan society for more than 30 years.
It is imperative to protect participation in civil society for Sri Lanka’s future and for those who assume leadership of such organizations. Mr. Kumara’s right to represent the voice of the fisher people is protected by the constitution of Sri Lanka and, hence, the government needs to ensure his safety. Please intervene immediately and initiate an investigation into these charges and prosecute those who attempt to deter the emergence of a vigorous civil society in Sri Lanka through threats and intimidation.
Sincerely,