Arrested in Sri Lanka: the first 24 hours
Updated 14 November 2026. 4 minute read.
A person arrested without a warrant must be produced before the nearest Magistrate within 24 hours, excluding travel time. They should be told the reason for arrest, may retain a lawyer, and can apply for bail. Contact a criminal defence lawyer as early as possible, ideally before the first production.
On arrest
The police must inform the person of the reason for the arrest. Family members should find out which police station is holding them and the officer in charge of the investigation.
Before the Magistrate
At the first production, the lawyer can ask for bail, object to remand and raise any concerns about how the arrest was made. Under the Bail Act, release on bail is the rule and detention the exception, though some offences are treated differently.
What family members can do
Gather the person’s NIC and any documents that show a fixed address and employment. These help with bail. Do not discuss the facts of the case with the police without a lawyer present.
This guide is general information about Sri Lankan law and practice. It is not legal advice, and the law may have changed. Speak to an Attorney-at-Law about your own situation.