UK Sanctions Sri Lankan Leaders for Human Rights Abuses

The UK has sanctioned four individuals, including Sri Lankan military commanders, for human rights violations during the 2009 conflict against the LTTE. The sanctions involve travel bans and asset freezes, emphasizing accountability for abuses during the civil war, which continue to affect communities.

The United Kingdom has taken decisive action by sanctioning four individuals over human rights abuses during Sri Lanka's civil war. Among those targeted are prominent former military leaders credited with the defeat of the LTTE in 2009.

The UK Foreign Office has confirmed travel bans and asset freezes on General Shavendra Silva, Wasantha Karannagoda, Jagath Jayasuriya, and Vinyagamurthy Muralidaran. These sanctions follow similar measures already imposed by the United States and Canada.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the government's dedication to ensuring accountability for historic human rights violations in Sri Lanka. The UK aims to collaborate with Sri Lanka's new governance to foster improved human rights and national unity.

(With inputs from agencies.)