The UNP said it would complain to the National Police Commission (NPC) against what it termed the illegal transfer of IP Nishantha Silva who handled several high-profile investigations. 

Silva, a senior CID officer, has been transferred with immediate effect, following an order by President Maithripala Sirisena. 

He handled investigations into the murder of Lasantha Wickrematunga, the assaults on Keith Noyahr and Upali Tennakoon and the abductions and killings of eleven youth. 

"Silva's transfer is illegal and it has not even been sent to the National Police Commission," Bandara, former State Minister of Law and Order, said addressing a press conference at Temple Trees, a short while ago. 

"They have forgotten that there is a Police Commission in the country. Police transfers cannot be done arbitrarily according to the whims and fancies of political powers," he added. 

Bandara expressed confidence that the NPC, an independent body cannot be influenced by politicians, would rectify the "illegal transfer."