Switzerland ‘deeply concerned’ over death of Tamil youth in Sri Lankan custody

File photograph: 25-year-old Alex.

Switzerland’s ambassador to Sri Lanka said her government was “deeply concerned” after a Tamil youth was killed after being tortured in Sri Lankan police custody this week.

“Any case of alleged custodial mistreatment should be impartially investigated by the Sri Lankan authorities,” tweeted Ambassador Siri Walt.

Her remarks are the first call from an international government official for an investigation into the killing of 25-year-old Nagarasa Alex.

There has been widespread outrage over his death. Alex had earlier been detained by Sri Lankan police in Vaddukkottai, with a video of him describing the horrific torture he was subject to being shared widely on social media.

He passed away on Sunday. At his funeral, locals held signs which said “Justice for Alex”.

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