UK Sanctions Sri Lankan Commanders for Civil War Abuses

The UK has imposed sanctions on four individuals, including former Sri Lankan military leaders, for human rights abuses during the 2009 campaign against the LTTE. The sanctioned individuals face travel bans and asset freezes, continuing efforts for accountability in Sri Lanka's ongoing human rights dialogue.

The United Kingdom has sanctioned four individuals associated with human rights abuses during the Sri Lankan civil war. The sanctions target notable figures, including military commanders and former government officials, for their roles in the conflict against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009.

Among those sanctioned are General Shavendra Silva, former army commander Wasantha Karannagoda, and Jagath Jayasuriya. These individuals have been subjected to UK travel bans and asset freezes, reflecting ongoing international efforts to hold them accountable for alleged extrajudicial killings, torture, and sexual violence.

UK Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, David Lammy, emphasized the commitment to human rights and accountability, recognizing the lasting impact of the war on Sri Lankan communities. This action mirrors past sanctions by the US and Canada, underlining a continued international focus on addressing human rights violations in Sri Lanka.

(With inputs from agencies.)