Public Outcry as Senior Lawyer Gunaratne Wanninayake Caught on Video Threatening Police Officer at Mount Lavinia Court
Colombo, October 12, 2025 —
A major controversy has erupted in Sri Lanka’s legal and judicial community following the release of CCTV footage showing senior lawyer Gunaratne Wanninayake allegedly verbally abusing, threatening, and obstructing a police officer at the Mount Lavinia Court premises. The video, obtained and reviewed by Sri Lanka Police, has now become key evidence in a rapidly escalating investigation.
The footage reportedly captures Wanninayake, a prominent lawyer and well-known figure in Colombo’s legal circles, confronting the officer shortly after an alleged assault incident involving another lawyer on October 10, 2025.
Incident Background
According to police reports, the altercation began when a lawyer attempted to take his car out of the Mount Lavinia Court complex. During the process, an argument broke out with a police officer, allegedly leading to the lawyer being assaulted.
Following the incident, the Mount Lavinia Police arrested the officer in question and produced him before court. He was remanded until October 13, 2025, pending further inquiry.
However, fresh complications arose when investigators discovered new video evidence showing another senior lawyer—identified as Gunaratne Wanninayake—verbally abusing and threatening the same officer involved in the earlier scuffle.
Police sources confirmed that multiple witness statements have already been recorded, and the matter is now being handled under the supervision of the Mount Lavinia Division’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).
Public Reaction: Anger Against Elitist Behaviour
The emergence of the video has sparked public outrage across social media and among civic activists. Many Sri Lankans see the incident as another example of how privileged professionals and bureaucrats behave with impunity, often disregarding the rule of law while demanding respect from ordinary citizens.
Critics argue that such arrogant displays of authority—especially from those who are meant to uphold justice—expose the deep flaws in Sri Lanka’s institutional culture.
“When lawyers, who should be defending justice, threaten the very officers upholding the law, it destroys public faith in the system,” said a civic activist from Colombo during a televised discussion last night.
The public mood reflects a growing frustration toward high-level professionals, bureaucrats, and politicians who are frequently seen escaping accountability for misconduct or using influence to intimidate law enforcement officials.
Wider Concerns About the Judiciary and Legal Culture
This latest courtroom confrontation comes amid ongoing criticism of elitism and lack of accountability within Sri Lanka’s legal system. Over the years, several incidents have raised questions about discipline and professionalism among some members of the bar.
While lawyers are entitled to professional dignity and respect, legal experts note that the same standards of behaviour and respect for the law must apply to them as to everyone else.
“A lawyer who threatens or obstructs a police officer is not defending justice—he’s abusing privilege,” said retired Senior Magistrate Anura De Silva. “The Bar Association must take disciplinary action when senior members cross ethical boundaries.”
Observers also point out that such incidents damage the public image of the Sri Lankan Bar Association, already under pressure to demonstrate moral leadership in times of institutional decline and political interference.
Police and Judicial Response
Police say the video evidence has been officially included in the case file, and investigations are continuing into whether Wanninayake’s actions amounted to criminal obstruction of a public officer under Sri Lanka’s Penal Code.
According to senior officials, the investigation will be handled independently, and all individuals involved—whether police or lawyers—will be treated equally before the law.
Meanwhile, legal commentators are calling on the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) to review the footage and take appropriate disciplinary measures if the lawyer’s conduct is proven to breach professional ethics.
“The BASL cannot remain silent when senior members behave in ways that bring disrepute to the entire legal community,” said one attorney familiar with the case. “If they don’t act, the people will see this as yet another instance of double standards.”
Public Trust and the Fight Against Institutional Arrogance
This incident has reignited a broader national conversation about arrogance, privilege, and lack of accountability among Sri Lanka’s elite circles—whether in law, politics, or bureaucracy.
Ordinary citizens have taken to online forums and talk shows to express disappointment at what they call a “culture of untouchability.” Many point out that police officers often face disciplinary or legal consequences within hours, while influential lawyers or officials are given time and space to manipulate outcomes.
“The problem isn’t just this one lawyer,” said a university lecturer from Moratuwa. “It’s the entire system that protects power, not justice. The people are tired of it.”
Conclusion
The Mount Lavinia Court incident has quickly evolved from a local scuffle into a symbolic showdown between privilege and accountability. Whether Gunaratne Wanninayake’s actions were driven by anger, professional loyalty, or arrogance, they have sparked an overdue debate on the ethical standards of Sri Lanka’s legal community.
The police have vowed to continue investigations impartially, while civil society demands that the rule of law apply equally—no matter how senior, connected, or powerful the individual.
As the inquiry unfolds, the Sri Lankan public watches closely, demanding not just justice for this single event, but a broader reckoning against the misuse of power in every corner of authority.
